Outcome models in peripheral nerve repair: time for a reappraisal or for a novel?

Peripheral nerve injuries are still underestimated. The complexity of assessment of outcome after nerve injury and repair has been described by many authors. Furthermore, the outcome is influenced by several factors that depend on mechanisms in the peripheral as well as the central nervous system. Appropriate formulation of a global accepted postoperative clinical protocol for peripheral nerve repair in the upper extremity remains a subject of debate. The purpose of this review is to detail the current concepts of methods of evaluation after peripheral nerves repair. Finally, we discuss the most crucial factors that determine the final hand function and we consider the challenges that need to be addressed to create a realistic clinical protocol that reflects a prognostic importance.