My nerve injury occurred many years ago and never recovered. Are there any surgical options still available?
Nerve repair, nerve grafting, and nerve transfers can work when performed up to one year after injury. However, they work best when performed in less than six months. In select cases, nerve surgery may be indicated for injuries older than one year. Fortunately, there are other options for chronic nerve injuries, including tendon and muscle transfers (see technologies and techniques available), which can work quite well. Common examples include tendon transfers for foot and wrist drop, and muscle transfers for elbow flexion after failed brachial plexus surgery.
