Re: Information needed on nerve transplantion techniques!

Posted By CCF Neurology MD on July 10, 1997 at 11:49:26:

In Reply to: Information needed on nerve transplantion techniques! posted by M. Montoya  on June 21, 1997 at 14:23:53:







: I have an older brother who many years ago suffered severe nerve damage to
his arm and shoulder. I wanted to know where I might be able to find information
on nerve transplantation techniques. And if there is a time window following
an injury such as this that a patient has in order to take part in this type
of surgery.=M.Montoya, I will answer your second question first. Unfortunately,
there is a window of approximately 18-20 months following the injury in which
the surgery should be performed. After this period, the muscles innervated by
the damaged nerves undergo irreversiable atrophy.  This atrophy occours because
for any muscle to survive beyond this period, it must be innervated. Of secondary
concern would be that if your brother is having further loss of strength or change(s)
in sensation with his arm or shoulder. If so, I would recommend that you have him seek
an evaluation by a neurologist specializing in neuromuscular disorders (at the CCF this
would be Drs. Levin, Mitsumoto, Pirro or Shields. If you wish further information, Dr.
David Kline, Dept. of Neurosurgery, Louisana State University, has written extensively
on this subject and would be a good reference source. "This information is provided
for general medical education purpose only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic
and treatment options of your specific medical condition."