[The Dellon tube in injuries of peripheral nerves]

Experimental efforts are being undertaken to improve nerve transplantation as a method for peripheral nerve repair. Major disadvantages of nerve transplantation are the creation of neurologic deficits at the donor site and the limited availability of nerve grafts. Mackinnon and Dellon propose the interposition of synthetic, biodegradable tubes as a nerve conduit for clinical use. This method is described according to its theoretical background and the surgical technique. The interposition of synthetic tubes seems possible for short defects in finger nerves, but will render unfavourable results in long defects of peripheral mixed nerves.