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Nerve Assessment Index: A New Rating Tool for Peripheral Nerve Coaptations in Sharp Nerve Transections
Vincent G J Guillaume1, Tim Leypold1, Leonie Scheve1
1From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand - and Burn Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|June 1, 2026
Summary
A new "Nerve Assessment Index" aims to standardize the evaluation of nerve coaptation quality during surgery. This tool will improve consistency and transparency in peripheral nerve repair outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Peripheral nerve injuries cause significant long-term deficits and reduced quality of life.
- Current nerve repair outcomes are unpredictable due to variable coaptation quality.
- A standardized tool for assessing nerve coaptation quality is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel rating system, the "Nerve Assessment Index" (NAI).
- To provide an objective method for evaluating the anatomical and morphological quality of nerve coaptation.
- To harmonize reporting standards and improve decision-making in peripheral nerve surgery.
Main Methods:
- Development of a structured rating system for nerve coaptation.
- Focus on anatomical and morphological assessment criteria.
- Designed for application in both clinical and preclinical settings.
Main Results:
- The proposed Nerve Assessment Index offers a standardized framework.
- It enables reproducible scoring of nerve repairs.
- Facilitates improved intraoperative assessment and comparison across studies.
Conclusions:
- The Nerve Assessment Index can enhance consistency and transparency in peripheral nerve surgery.
- It aims to improve functional outcomes by standardizing coaptation assessment.
- This tool may lead to higher quality evidence in the field.
