ASSESSING THE OUTCOME OF NERVE RECONSTRUCTION WITH EXTENDED NERVE GRAFT

Abstract

 In this study, we evaluated the functional outcomes of nerve reconstruction for nerve gaps exceeding 7 
cm, using sural nerve autografts. The cases primarily involved brachial plexus injuries and peripheral 
nerve injuries.  The most frequent causes of these injuries were motorcycle accidents and workplace 
incidents, predominantly affecting young individuals. The best outcomes for nerve injuries are achieved 
through primary coaptation.  All the patients in our study underwent delayed nerve reconstruction rather 
than primary repair for various reasons, resulting in outcomes that were not as favourable as those of 
primary repair. Despite using avascular nerve grafts to bridge long nerve gaps, many of our patients still 
experienced meaningful recovery.  Motor function recovery outperformed sensory function recovery 
across all types of reconstructions. Hence, in situations where facilities and expertise for vascularized 
nerve grafts are unavailable, attempting reconstruction with an extended nerve graft for long nerve gap is 
justified.