Functional outcome following nerve repair in the upper extremity using processed nerve allograft

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Peripheral nerve injuries often result in discontinuities requiring surgical reconstruction.
• Processed nerve allografts are an emerging option for bridging nerve gaps.
• The RANGER Study registry collects data on clinical use of processed nerve allografts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the safety and efficacy of processed nerve allografts in upper extremity nerve repairs.
• To evaluate outcomes for peripheral nerve reconstruction using processed nerve allografts within the RANGER Study registry.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 71 upper extremity nerve repairs from the RANGER Study registry.
• Inclusion of 56 subjects (mean age 40 years) with nerve gaps ranging from 5 to 50 mm.
• Assessment of sensory and motor recovery using international standards.

Main Results:

• No implant complications, tissue rejections, or adverse events reported.
• Overall recovery (S3/M4 and above) achieved in 86% of procedures.
• Meaningful recovery observed across sensory, mixed, and motor nerve repairs, including digital, median, and ulnar nerves.

Conclusions:

• Processed nerve allografts provide a safe and effective solution for peripheral nerve gaps (5-50 mm).
• Outcomes compare favorably to nerve autografts and surpass those of tube conduits.
• This study supports the clinical utility of processed nerve allografts in nerve reconstruction.