May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Neuropathy Nerve Transfer Operation For Foot Drop
Nerve Transfer Operation For Foot Drop |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi I would like to know whats the success rate and the complication rate for a nerve transfer operation for drop foot patients. Using a procedure whereby a portion of the tibial nerve is taken and rerouted to the peroneal nerve to add additional power to the ankle, therefore to assist in lifting the ankle up. Dear Earl: Success rate of such procedures depend on the lenght of nerve injured and length of time since injury. Clinical studies demonstarte that the highest success rate occurs in those persons who have nerve transfer procedure performed within a year of injury and those in whom less than 5.5cm of the peroneal nerve was injured. This study conducted at the Louisiana State Univiersity School Of Medicine, in the United States, showed that approximately 75% of patients with foot drop who fell within the above mentioned criteria had good results following a nerve transfer procedure. A good result was defined by ability too walk with a reasonable gait and withut the use of a foot brace. As with any surgical procedure, complications may occur. Namely, wound infection and failure of nerve graft. These complications are uncommon but may be devastating when they occur. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 31 August 2011 ) |
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