peripheral nerves for superficial sensation and sensorimotor function may be stretched or cut during operative procedures

Nerve Injury Classification

First degree - temporary demyelination - recovery expected in 12 weeks
Second degree - associated with more severe trauma or prolonged compression, includes more extensive demyelination and axonal degeneration; regeneration is likely and may take 6 months to a year or more
Third degree - extent of nerve injury and demyelination is extensive - regeneration is not likely
Fourth degree - significant nerve injury and extensive scar formation prevents any regeneration below scar area; surgical interventions for recovering function
Fifth degree - complete nerve transection; surgical intervention to recover function
Sixth degree - describes a combination of varying levels of function within a nerve, which may require surgical interventions to restore function

Nerve Injury Recovery

nerve injuries that are proximal (i.e. closer to the nerve root) affect more structure and result in greater loss of function
nerve injuries that are proximal are slower to recover due to regeneration times (0.5mm to 1 in./day) and regeneration may be incomplete

complete laceration of nerves require surgical intervention: surgical success rate depends on timing of surgery since injury and location of nerve

neuroplasticity and adaptability of motor and pre-motor planning and sensory reintegration is higher in the younger population
repeated initiation, practice, feedback optimizes ability to redevelop sensorimotor pathways and motor function