Surgical treatment modalities for lower-extremity iatrogenic nerve lesions.

Abstract

Thirty-six patients with lower-extremity iatrogenic nerve injury were treated with neurolysis (23), direct nerve coaption (1), and nerve grafting (12) depending on the nature, duration, and degree of nerve injury. Seventeen (74%) of 23 patients presenting with motor nerve injury achieved motor function against resistance. In 24 (80%) of 30 patients with sensory nerve involvement, at least some superficial sensory function was restored. Surgeons should be familiar with clinical and electroneurophysiological tests for early diagnosis of iatrogenic nerve injuries to allow early intervention for maximum nerve recovery.