Massive Weight Loss Leg Wounds Peripheral Nerve
Peripheral Nerve Surgery
The plastic surgeons at Northwestern have a particular interest in peripheral nerve surgery. The peripheral nervous system is defined as the nerves outside the spinal canal. Among their many functions, nerves allow us to move, allow us to sense our environment (touch), and give us the useful protective element of pain. A problem with the peripheral nervous system, therefore, can cause difficulties with movement, can decrease feeling in our hands and legs, and can cause pain.
Nerves within the spine and spinal canal are treated by orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons. Unfortunately, some nerve conditions consist of problems of the nerves both as they exit the spine and also in the periphery. You may need for than one type of physician to evaluate your nerve problem.
The plastic surgeons at Northwestern treat all types of peripheral nerve problems. The most common are listed below.
Peripheral Nerve Surgery addresses some of the following conditions:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Radial Tunnel Syndrome
- Neuromas
- Nerve Tumors
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Peroneal Nerve Compression
- Facial Nerve Injuries
- Targeted Reinnervation or the Bionic Arm Procedure
Nerve Injury and Repair
Nerves are like electrical wires than conduct electricity and information in two directions from the brain out to the periphery, and simultaneously from the periphery back to the brain. Injuries to the peripheral nerves can occur in many different situations, with trauma being a leading cause of cut or injured peripheral nerves. Surgery for other conditions can lead to cut nerve endings as well. There are situations when injured peripheral nerves can be repaired to help restore function. Within 3 weeks of injury, a cut nerve can often be primarily repaired to partly restore function. After 3 weeks from the injury, nerve grafting with nerves taken from the back of the leg, or even synthetic tubes, can be used to help repair the injured nerve. This is a complex topic, and every patient is different. Ask your doctor if something can be done to help your injured nerve.
The following site offers more information on nerve injury and repair: