Current Best Peripheral Nerve Transfers for Spinal Cord Injury

Learning Objectives: After reviewing this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the anatomy and pathophysiology of spinal cord injury and the resulting upper and lower motor neuron syndromes. 2. Recognize who may benefit from nerve transfers. 3. Understand the role of history, examination, imaging, and electrodiagnostics in the determination of time-sensitive lower motor neuron injury versus non–time-sensitive upper motor neuron injury. 4. Outline the surgical options and perioperative care for those undergoing nerve transfer and the expected outcomes in restoring shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand function. Summary: This article outlines how to localize and differentiate upper motor neuron from combined upper and lower motor neuron injury patterns in spinal cord injury by means of detailed history, physical examination, imaging, and electrodiagnostic studies to formulate appropriate surgical plans to restore function in this complex population.

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