Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 20, 2025
Structured Motor Rehabilitation After Selective Nerve Transfers
Published on: August 15, 2019
Nerve transfers in the upper extremity: A review.
Ramzi C Moucharafieh1, Mohammad I Badra2, Karl A Boulos3
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Saint Georges University Medical Center, Balamand University, P.O. Box 166378, Achrafieh, Beirut, 1100 2807, Lebanon; Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Clemenceau Medical Center Affiliated With Johns Hopkins International, Clemenceau Beirut, Lebanon.
Nerve transfers are becoming the standard for brachial plexus and peripheral nerve injuries, offering a way to restore upper extremity function. This review summarizes accepted nerve transfer techniques for these complex injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Brachial plexus and peripheral nerve injuries cause significant upper extremity dysfunction.
- Traditional treatments are being superseded by nerve transfers.
- Nerve transfers demand detailed anatomical knowledge and specialized surgical skills.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize widely accepted nerve transfer techniques for upper extremity injuries.
- To provide a resource for understanding current best practices in nerve reconstruction.
- To highlight the importance of nerve transfers in managing peripheral nerve damage.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current scientific publications.
- Identification and synthesis of established nerve transfer procedures.
- Focus on techniques applicable to brachial plexus and proximal peripheral nerve injuries.
Main Results:
- Nerve transfers are increasingly recognized as the gold standard for specific nerve injuries.
- Detailed understanding of nerve topography and intraneural dissection is crucial.
- Extensive physical therapy is essential for successful functional recovery post-transfer.
Conclusions:
- Nerve transfers represent a significant advancement in treating upper extremity nerve injuries.
- Mastery of surgical technique and post-operative rehabilitation is key to outcomes.
- This review consolidates current knowledge on effective nerve transfer strategies.
