Neurorrhaphy, nerve grafting, and neurotization: a functional comparison of nerve reconstruction techniques.

This study examines the efficacy of three methods of peripheral nerve reconstruction: neurorrhaphy, nerve grafting, and neurotization. The extensor digitorum longus (EDL) neuromuscular unit of 63 New Zealand rabbits was used as the experimental model. Neuromuscular function was examined after 2, 4, and 6-month recovery periods. Variable recovery was seen after 2 months of recovery. At 6 months postoperatively, nerve grafting and neurorrhaphy were not statistically different from the unoperated control neuromuscular units. Neurotization grafting demonstrated a recovery of function of no greater than 50% at 6 months.