Hand & Upper Limb Surgery
Nerve Repair Surgery
Reconnecting a cut or damaged nerve to restore sensation and movement
Overview
Nerves carry both sensation and the signals that drive muscle movement, so a cut or damaged nerve in the hand or arm can cause numbness, weakness, or both — depending on which nerve is involved and where along its course the injury occurred. Nerve repair surgery reconnects the nerve under magnification so that regenerating nerve fibres have the best chance of finding their way back to their original targets.
Nerves regenerate slowly and the surgery itself is only the starting point — the timing of repair, the condition of the nerve ends, and consistent follow-through with rehabilitation all affect how much sensation and function eventually return.
Candidacy
Is Nerve Repair Surgery Right for You?
- A laceration or penetrating injury with numbness or weakness in the area supplied by the affected nerve
- A gunshot, blast, or crush injury involving the median, ulnar, radial, or digital nerves
- Nerve injury occurring alongside a tendon or fracture injury in the same limb
- Injuries assessed promptly, since timing can affect how well a repair goes on to function
What to Expect
Your Journey
- 01
Assessment
Clinical examination of sensation and muscle function to map out which nerve is affected and how completely it's been injured.
- 02
Repair
Performed under magnification, typically as part of the same operation addressing any associated tendon or vessel injury, suturing the nerve ends together with fine microsurgical technique.
- 03
Recovery
Nerve regeneration is gradual and monitored over months, with hand therapy supporting movement and, later, sensory re-education as feeling returns.
Recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
Nerves regenerate at only a few millimetres a day, so recovery is measured in months rather than weeks — sensation typically returns before fine motor control, and some areas may not regain full normal feeling. Your surgical team will track progress at intervals and guide rehabilitation accordingly.
Case Gallery
Documented Cases
Graphic Medical Content
This gallery contains real surgical photography and clinical documentation, including open wounds, incisions, and traumatic injuries. It is shared for educational and professional purposes. Viewer discretion is advised.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for feeling to come back?
This depends on how far the repair site is from the affected fingertips or muscles, since nerves regenerate at a slow, roughly constant rate — a repair closer to the hand generally shows recovery sooner than one higher up the arm.
Will sensation be completely normal again?
Many patients regain useful, protective sensation, though fine discrimination doesn't always return to fully normal — your surgeon can give a more individual outlook based on the specific nerve and injury.
Is nerve repair usually combined with tendon repair?
Often, yes — penetrating injuries like lacerations or gunshot wounds frequently damage nerves and tendons together, and both are typically addressed in the same operation.
Have Questions About Nerve Repair Surgery?
Every case is different. Get in touch to discuss your situation, or keep reading for more on candidacy, recovery, and what to expect.
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