Nerve transfer

Nerve transfer is a surgical procedure during which a healthy nerve is redirected or transferred to a different location in the body. The transferred nerve, called the donor nerve, is used to restore function in an area where nerves are damaged or non-functional, called the recipient nerve. During the surgery, the healthy nerve is connected close to the injured nerve, which allows healthy nerve fibers to grow through the injured nerve. This process restores movement or sensation to the affected area. Also called neurotization, nerve transfer surgery is often used to repair nerve injuries caused by trauma, paralysis, or other neurological conditions.

Nerve transfer surgery is done by a nerve specialist. When preparing for nerve transfer surgery, our nerve specialists carefully consider factors that will give you the best possible outcome. These factors include the location of the injured nerve, the similarity in muscle function and nerve fibers, and the size of the healthy nerve. Using the latest technology and up-to-date surgical approaches, we’re dedicated to relieving your symptoms and improving your quality of life. 

Your Penn Medicine provider may recommend nerve transfer surgery if you’ve lost movement or feeling due to nerve injuries. These injuries can occur due to trauma, such as car accidents, falls, or other medical conditions. Several factors are considered, including the extent of the nerve injury, the location of the injury, your overall health, and your goals for recovery.

Nerve transfer surgery is typically recommended for: 

• Conditions that affect nerve function, such as peripheral nerve disorders or certain types of paralysis
• Damaged nerves that can’t be reconnected or healed on their own
• Nerve injuries that remain after trying physical therapy or medication
• Nerve injuries where a large section of the nerve is damaged or missing
• Older nerve injuries that left scarring
• Severe nerve injuries, such as in the brachial plexus, which is a network of nerves that control movement and feeling in the arm 

Before your nerve transfer surgery, your doctor will explain how the procedure is done and give you time to ask questions. Your care team will review your medications with you, discuss your health history, and let you know how to prepare for surgery. In addition, you can expect the following:  

• Your surgery will be done at a hospital or surgery center.
• You’ll have anesthesia with sedation, so you’re asleep and pain-free during surgery.
• The surgeon will make incisions in your skin to access the nerves involved.
• The surgeon will gently disconnect the healthy nerve and connect it to the damaged nerve.
• After the surgery, you’ll be monitored closely as you wake up from anesthesia. Most patients are discharged from the hospital within a day or two.
• You may experience some discomfort or pain at the surgical site, which can be managed with medication prescribed by your Penn Medicine care team. 

Recovery from nerve transfer surgery can take several months. Once your body heals from surgery, your nerves take time to regrow. Many patients go to physical therapy to help regain strength and function in the affected area. Some patients may need to make temporary lifestyle changes, such as modifying certain physical activities, to avoid injuring the nerves at the surgical site. Our care team will provide you with detailed instructions to improve your recovery.

It’s important to follow your provider’s recommendations and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns during the healing process.