Vascularized nerve grafts
Comtet, J.J.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica 83(4): 293-297
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-5458 PMID: 6637307 Document Number: 204465
Conventional nerve grafts initially survive by plasmatic absorption till within 5 to 7 days revascularization has developed originating from the receptor site. Conventional nerve grafts degenerate and regenerate in a manner different from sectioned nerve endings. Their results, although satisfactory, are predictable. The vascularized nerve graft figures among the other tissue transplants with microvascular anastomoses. So far several nerves have been used as donor grafts: the anterior branch of the radial nerve, the sural nerve, the medial cutaneous branch of the forearm. The cubital nerve can also be used in cases of brachial plexus paralysis but is associated with a definitive lesion of the lower roots. Vascularized nerve grafts have been used in 7 cases in extremely unfavorable situations: 3 had a functional result: our experience is too small for conclusions.