Peripheral nerve revascularization: a current literature review.

The revascularization of peripheral nerve grafts is reviewed in detail. The endoneurial vasculature is examined and noted to be anatomically dissimilar to a conventional capillary bed although, physiologically, it must subserve similar metabolic functions. Autografts, allografts, and xenografts are considered, as is the effect of graft caliber. The clinical implications for vascularized nerve grafting are discussed.