J Reconstr Microsurg 1993; 9(2): 139-144
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006662
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1993 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

A Technique for Nerve Reconstruction Following Resection of Soft-Tissue Sarcoma

Gilbert W. Lee, Susan E. Mackinnon, Keith Brandt, Robert S. Bell
  • Division of Plastic Surgery, Washington University Department of Surgery, St. Louis, MO and Musculoskeletal Oncology Unit, Mt. Sinai Hospital and University of Toronto Dr. Mackinnon, Washington University School of Medicine, One Barnes Hospital Plaza, #17424, St. Louis, MO 63110
Further Information

Publication History

Accepted for publication 1992

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

Primary nerve grafting should be considered whenever tumor extirpation necessitates resection of an adjacent critical nerve. A technique of nerve grafting is presented which distinguishes motor from sensory fascicles, using intraoperative electrical stimulation. Stimulation of individual motor fascicles is performed proximal and distal to the lesion, and fascicles which produce the same muscle contraction are identified. Motor and silent sensory fascicles are tagged prior to tumor resection. This facilitates subsequent specific motor/sensory reconstruction of the defect, using intrafascicular grafting techniques.