External Neurolysis
An external neurolysis removes scar tissue around a nerve without entering it.
Internal Neurolysis
The outer sheath of a nerve is opened with a microscope to relieve stretched, chronically compressed, internally scarred or swollen conditions.
Nerve Repair
Nerves that have been cut or torn apart with trauma need to be reattached so that recovery can occur.
Nerve Grafting
When the ends of a cut or damaged nerve do not reach together then a nerve graft is placed in between.
Conduit Nerve Repair
In situations where a direct nerve repair is not possible, small absorbable tubes can be used instead.
Nerve Transfers
A nerve transfer is when a normal nerve is cut and subsequently attached to the distal end of an injured nerve, preferably as close as possible to the muscle.
End-to-side Repair
This procedure is a variation of the nerve transfer.
Nerve Transplant
Although rarely indicated, it is sometimes necessary to take a nerve graft from another person.
Contralateral C7 Transfer
This may be an option for patients with severe brachial plexus injuries where most of their nerves have been pulled from the spinal cord.
Muscle Transfers
For severe brachial plexus injuries, or when brachial plexus repair does not provide recovery, a muscle transfer may be an option.
Tendon Transfers
If nerve repair does not work, or if it is too late for nerve surgery, then tendon transfers may be helpful.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
For severe nerve damage that does not respond to more conservative treatment options, direct nerve stimulation may be helpful.
High-resolution 3-T MRI
Using a powerful magnet along with the proper coil, we are able to perform imaging of the extremities with adequate resolution to evaluate nerve injuries.
CT Myelography
A lumbar puncture is used to inject contrast dye into the spinal fluid, followed by a CT scan of the cervical spine.
Electrodiagnostic Testing
Electrical testing, including electromyography and nerve conduction studies, is used to confirm and determine the severity of any clinical findings.
Intraoperative Electrophysiological Monitoring
When an affected nerve is exposed during surgery, very sensitive electrical testing can be performed to help guide the surgeon with determining proper treatment.
