Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries are common. Most are caused by lacerating or penetrating injuries. Failure to diagnose early leads to permanent disability. In the accident department absent two point discrimination or loss of sweating on the affected nger are clues to nerve injury. Primary surgery can be performed up to three weeks from injury with approximately 60% return of nerve function. Late reconstruction with interposition nerve grafts (usually sural) can also result in useful return of nerve function. Rehabilitation after any nerve repair is slow and may require extensive hand therapy input for up to two years.
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