Evaluation and therapy after injury to peripheral nerves.

Peripheral nerve injuries from whatever cause should be classified according to the degree of axon, fascicle, and main nerve trunk damage. This approach is useful in assessing the chances for spontaneous recovery and planning for surgery directed at improving neural recovery. Evaluation over time may be required to better classify the degree of injury. Once recovery slows or ceases, the surgical approaches available include neurolysis, nerve repair, nerve transposition, autograft reconstruction, and various procedures directed at painful neuromata. With proper mobilization and protection of neural and vascular structures, even extensive orthopaedic reconstructive procedures may be performed. Ischemic neuritis and myopathies may be improved by such combined approaches.