Microsurgical treatment of peripheral nerve injuries

In the period from 1972 to 1976, 536 patients with injuries of the peripheral nerves were treated at the Neurosurgical University Clinic Lyublyana. The treatment was performed according to the principles of microsurgery. Preoperative and postoperative supervision included EMG, electroneurography and nerve conduction speed. Subdivision: N. facialis 6, plexus brachialis 78, n. radialis 58, n. medianus 189, n. ulnaris 212, n. ischiadicus 17, n. femoralis 3, n. tibialis 12, n. fibularis 37. On the plexus brachialis 50 funiculolyses and 28 raphies were carried out. Immobilisation for 10 days. The length of the transplants showed no negative influence. After-observation was necessary for three and more years, especially in case of plexus injuries. Complete restoration was only found in children. Sensitivity in 80% more than Seddon III, 17% III and 3% less than III. Motor function in 60% IV, 20% III, 12% II and 8% less than II.