Neurolysis of the common peroneal nerve in leprosy. A report on 22 patients

Thirty-two operations on the common peroneal nerve for leprous neuritis are reported. A combined medical and surgical approach to treatment is recommended, and the technique of operation is described. Recovery of motor power was satisfactory but depended on many factors, including the duration of the neuritis, the extent of the compression, the immunopathological status of the patient and the efficacy of medical treatment. The main indication for neurolysis is hyperalgesic neuritis. The only contraindication is painless long-standing paralysis; in this condition the degree of neural fibrosis prevents any hope of improvement.