Comparison of microscope and loupe magnification: assistance for the repair of median and ulnar nerves.

A retrospective study of the results of repair of complete divisions of median and ulnar nerves in 31 patients was carried out to compare those operations in which microscope magnification had been used with those in which loupe magnification had been used. A comprehensive set of clinical parameters was applied to assess the patients. It included motor performance of the intrinsic muscles of the hand, tests of protective sensation, discriminatory sensation, sudomotor function and vibration sensation. The results are comparable with previously published series with children notably showing a greater degree of recovery of function than adults. Because this is a relatively small retrospective series, it does not lend itself to statistical analysis. However, the results suggest that the type of magnification assistance used in peripheral nerve repair is not as significant in the achievement of good results as other factors which should be considered.