Results of suture of the sciatic nerve after missile injury
Taha, A.; Taha, J.
Journal of Trauma 45(2): 340-344
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-5282 PMID: 9715193 Document Number: 487062
Objective: To evaluate functional recovery after suture of the sciatic nerve after missile injury. Methods: We reviewed the outcome of 23 adults and four children who had the sciatic nerve sutured above the knee 3 to 14 weeks after missile injury and who were followed for 14 to 36 months. Results: In adults, useful motor recovery was significantly better after suture of tibial (83%) than peroneal (39%) nerves, after suture of nerves at the thigh (71%) than at the buttock (31%) level, and after end-to-end anastomosis (74%) than grafting (39%). Useful sensory function was recovered in 78% of tibial nerves. Fifty-seven percent of adults walked wearing special shoes or pads. Significantly better recovery occurred it, children, who all walked with normal footwear. Conclusion: We advocate exploration of the sciatic nerve at any level within 3 months if no spontaneous recovery occurs after a missile injury. We do not advocate exploration of the sciatic nerve at the buttock level if only peroneal function is lost except in children.