Group fascicular vein grafts with interposition of nerve slices for long ulnar nerve defects: Report of three cases

Abstract

Group fascicular vein grafts with interposition of nerve slices were designed for reconstruction of three ulnar nerves with defects of 2.5-4.5 cm. The veins were taken from superficial veins in the forearm and reversed to bridge the fascicles in both stumps. Normal nerve slices were sectioned from fascicles in the proximal stump and inserted inside the corresponding vein conduits. Postoperatively, the Tinel's sign was detected across the vein conduits, and electromyography showed reinnervation of intrinsic muscles of the hands. Follow-up for more than 2 years revealed motor recovery to M4 and sensory recovery to S3-S4 in these three cases. This technique may be a promising alternative to group fascicular nerve grafting for long defects in peripheral nerve trunks.