Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 6, 2026
Structured Motor Rehabilitation After Selective Nerve Transfers
Published on: August 15, 2019
The optimization of peripheral nerve recovery using cortical reorganization techniques: A retrospective study of
Bonnie Walbruch1, Loree Kalliainen1
1Plastic and Hand Surgery, Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN, USA.
Study Design:
Retrospective case series.
Introduction:
Outcomes following peripheral nerve repairs have not significantly improved over the past few decades. A new protocol using cortical reorganization techniques was developed with the goal of improving nerve recovery in the hand.
Purpose Of The Study:
To determine if early sensory re-education using cortical reorganization techniques improved sensory outcomes in the hand after repair of wrist-level nerve injuries.
Methods:
A retrospective study was completed of wrist-level peripheral nerve repairs in patients who underwent a sensory re-education protocol which included cutaneous anesthesia, tactile stimulation, and sensory and motor imagery. Data for static 2-point discrimination, Semmes Weinstein monofilament assessments and the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores were collected.
Results:
At four months post-repair, three of seven of the median nerve lacerations had static 2-point discrimination of 7 mm or less in at least one digit. Using the Semmes Weinstein monofilaments, 9 of 11 nerve repairs felt the 4.31 filament (protective) or better by eleven months with five able to perceive the 2.83 filament (normal) in that time frame.
Conclusions:
This limited retrospective study suggests that early sensory re-education using cortical reorganization techniques may improve sensory outcomes. A larger scale study is indicated to confirm our findings.
Level Of Evidence:
IV.
