Rowan Chandler (plastic surgeon) and Larry Robinson (physiatrist / electromyographer) are pleased to run a monthly combined peripheral nerve clinic at Rebalance MD, focused on nerve injuries that might benefit from surgical intervention.
Given recent advances in peripheral nerve surgery, such as distal nerve transfers, new options are available for patients with severe or complex nerve injuries. Some of these procedures involve taking redundant nearby nerves and “plugging” them into the affected nerve to improve function, although there are other procedures as well. This clinic assesses whether patients are good candidates for these types of interventions, and then schedules procedures as indicated.
Ideal patient candidates are those who have had recent (preferably <6 months) nerve injuries or impairments with severe loss of function in the affected nerve and are potential surgical candidates.
Because muscle degenerates and is no longer receptive to reinnervation after 18-24 months, those with chronic or old injuries are not good candidates. Also, for those with only mild weakness or those undergoing spontaneous recovery, surgery will not likely improve upon natural recovery. But if unsure, it is better to refer too early and too frequently than to miss the window of opportunity for someone who might benefit.
If you would like to refer, please send a FAX to: 250-385-9600