Ulna Nerve Repair

[redcatcher06]

Hi.
I have two questions related to the same injury and would be very grateful for answers to either or both.

Firstly, I was shot through the upper arm Oct 07 and my ulna nerve was transected just above the elbow. While I am very grateful to still have that arm, I have been suffering Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) A.K.A. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) A.K.A. One Helluva Sore Arm ever since. I am currently taking methadone, amitriptyline, gabapentin (neurontin) & paracetamol (for break-through pain) with mediocre results. Am also doing physio/occupational therapy incl mirror therapy. Do you know of other successful treatments?

Secondly, I am awaiting ulna nerve graft/repair surgery in the next few months. The surgeon, however, said that while this surgery "might" give me back sensation in the little & ring fingers, my hand strength, currently zero, would stay the same. Do you, or anyone else, know of whether cases like mine HAVE resulted in recovered hand strength?  Thank you very much.
Richard (aged 40)

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Both of your questions require a specialist in hand surgery and are complex issues.  While I did perform hand surgery and nerve grafting 15 or more years ago, I am currently not up to date on these issues.  RSD is extremely difficult to treat and it sounds like you are receiving expert advise and care.  While nerve regeneration after its repair is likely to occur with return of some sensory function, the progressive atrophy of muscles after the nerve injury will likely make their return of function more difficult.

[redcatcher06]

Thanks Dr Rosenberg,

I appreciate the honest reply. I will let you know how I get on with both issues.
Regards, Richard.