Techniques for primary nerve repair

Abstract

This article reviews the anatomy of the peripheral nerve, the pathophysiology of nerve injury, and Wallerian degeneration. It reviews the factors for deciding on immediate or delayed primary nerve repair and discusses the concept of longitudinal excursion of peripheral nerves about joints and the techniques for achieving an appropriate tension-free repair. The techniques of primary nerve repair, epineurial repair, and group fascicular repair are reviewed along with techniques for matching fascicles intraoperatively.