Nerve Graft Surgery in India: Dr. Arun Saroha

What is Nerve Graft Surgery?

Nerve Graft surgery is employed when there is a nerve injury leading to total loss of muscle function or sensation. In this surgical approach, less critical nerves are harvested from one part of the body and connected to more vital, damaged nerves to restore function. This rerouted nerve then takes over the role of the damaged nerve. Such surgeries are particularly beneficial for patients with specific types of spinal cord injuries, notably those who have quadriplegia due to damage at the mid-cervical motor level of the spinal cord.

Regarding nerve graft surgery, nearly half of all spinal cord injuries affect the cervical spine, leading to tetraplegia, or paralysis of all four limbs. For individuals with tetraplegia, regaining hand function is often more crucial than bladder control, sexual function, standing ability, or other functionalities. Enhancing arm function through nerve graft surgery in India can significantly enhance the quality of life for these patients.

Types of Nerve Transfers

Nerve transfers involve rerouting healthy nerves to restore function in muscles that have lost their nerve supply due to injury. There are several types of nerve transfers, each tailored to address specific injuries and restore function in different parts of the body. Here are some common types:

• Motor Nerve Transfers: These are performed to restore motor function to a muscle or group of muscles. A functioning motor nerve from a less critical muscle is redirected to a more crucial muscle that has lost its nerve supply.
• Sensory Nerve Transfers: This type aims to restore sensory function to an area of skin or limb that has lost sensation. A healthy sensory nerve is connected to the sensory pathway of the affected area.
• Mixed Nerve Transfers: These involve the transfer of nerves that have both sensory and motor fibers. They are used to restore both types of functions in areas where complex injuries have occurred.
• Cross-Nerve Transfers: Also known as "cross-facial nerve grafts," these are typically used in facial reanimation procedures to restore facial muscle function, particularly after facial nerve paralysis.
• Distal Nerve Transfers: These involve rerouting nerves at or near the target muscles or sensory areas, usually within the hand or foot. This type of transfer can provide more direct and potentially quicker reinnervation.

How is the treatment performed?

Nerve transfer surgeries are conducted in the operating room under general anesthesia, using neurosurgical methods. The procedure begins with the surgeon making an incision in the skin to expose both the healthy donor nerve and the damaged nerve. Electrical devices are then employed to assess the functionality and condition of these nerves. The healthy nerve is transferred and connected to the injured nerve. This allows the nerves to grow along the pathway created by the previously injured nerve in the spinal cord. After the nerves are successfully joined, the surgeon closes the incisions.

Why Choose Dr. Arun Saroha for Nerve Graft Surgery in India?

When it comes to nerve graft surgery in India, Dr. Arun Saroha is one of the leading neurosurgeons you can trust. With over two decades of experience in neurosurgery, Dr. Saroha specializes in complex nerve graft and nerve transfer surgeries, providing life-changing solutions for patients with spinal cord injuries. His expertise, especially in restoring function to paralyzed limbs due to spinal cord injuries, has transformed the lives of many patients.

Dr. Saroha’s state-of-the-art techniques, coupled with his deep understanding of spinal cord and nerve anatomy, make him a top choice for those seeking the best possible outcomes from nerve graft surgery in India. His approach is patient-centered, ensuring that every individual receives a customized treatment plan designed to maximize recovery and improve quality of life.