Understanding the procedure
A plan may combine nerve reconstruction, tendon or muscle transfers, soft tissue procedures and selected joint stabilisation. The best combination depends on what function remains, the condition of the joints and the potential for further recovery.
When might it be considered?
- Persistent weakness after a brachial plexus or peripheral nerve injury.
- Limited shoulder positioning, elbow control, grasp or release.
- Several interacting problems following trauma or previous operations.
Specialist assessment
A detailed assessment compares active and passive movement, individual muscle power, sensation and pain. Imaging, nerve tests and therapy assessment help establish priorities. Earlier operative records are particularly valuable in revision reconstruction.
Treatment & recovery
Treatment may be staged, with rehabilitation between procedures. Splinting and non-operative adaptations are considered alongside surgery. Risks and trade-offs include stiffness, altered donor function, failure of reconstruction and incomplete gains. Improvement in selected tasks is a more realistic aim than a promise of a normal limb.
Common questions
Can anything be done years after an injury?
Sometimes. Tendon, muscle or joint procedures may still be considered even when direct nerve reconstruction is no longer suitable.
Will I need more than one operation?
Possibly. The plan is shaped around achievable goals and the amount of rehabilitation each stage requires.
General patient information from London Nerve Injury. Decisions about investigations and treatment require an individual clinical assessment.