Peripheral Nerve Surgery
What is Peripheral Nerve Surgery?
Peripheral nerve surgery is a specialized procedure that addresses injuries or conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS includes all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, which connect the central nervous system to the rest of the body. These nerves control sensation, movement, and motor function.
How to diagnose Peripheral Nerve problem? When to consult a doctor for Peripheral Nerve Surgery?
The doctor checks for muscle weakness, changes in sensation, and reflexes to identify possible nerve involvement. These can visualize nerves and surrounding structures, helping detect tumors or compression.
You should consult a doctor if:
- Persistent Numbness or Weakness: If numbness, weakness, or tingling in any part of your body lasts more than a few days, it may indicate nerve damage.
- Severe or Unmanageable Pain: Chronic nerve pain that does not respond to medications or therapies warrants evaluation.
- Loss of Function: If you lose the ability to move or control muscles in your hands, arms, or legs, you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Trauma or Injury: If you’ve suffered an injury (like a deep cut or accident) affecting nerve function, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage.
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Causes
- Trauma or cuts can sever or severely damage peripheral nerves, impairing movement or sensation.
- Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, or thoracic outlet syndrome result from pressure on nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
- Nerve tumors (e.g., neurofibromas or schwannomas) can grow and compress surrounding nerves.
- Persistent pain caused by nerve damage (neuropathy) may require surgery to relieve symptoms.
- Scar tissue from prior surgeries or injuries can bind nerves and restrict their movement, causing pain or dysfunction.
Symptoms
- Numbness or Tingling
- Pain
- Weakness
- Sensitivity to Touch
- Loss of Coordination
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery varies based on the type of surgery and extent of nerve damage. It can take weeks to months, and full recovery may depend on the extent of nerve regeneration. Physical therapy is often part of the recovery process.
In some cases, peripheral nerves can heal on their own, particularly if the injury is mild or the nerve is compressed rather than severed. Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and splints may be used before surgery is considered.
Physical therapy is critical for regaining strength, mobility, and function after surgery. It helps in retraining muscles and promoting nerve regeneration.