Nerve Injuries

Question 1

what are common MOIs of nerve injuries?

Answer 1

compression, laceration, stretch, radiation , electricity and injection

Question 2

what are the most common causes of biomechanical injuries to the PNS?

Answer 2

friction, compression, stretch

Question 3

describe neuropraxia.

Answer 3

segmental demyelination where AP is normal before and after the block; mild ischemia might occur but muscle doesn’t atrophy and sensory symptoms are temporary

Question 4

describe axonotmesis.

Answer 4

prolonged compression/stretch> connective tissue coverings intact w/ loss of axonal continuity, ft. Wallerian degeneration, muscle fibers do atrophy and nonsurgical recovery often incomplete

Question 5

describe neurotmesis

Answer 5

lacerations (gunshot/stab, avulsion)> complete severance of nerve fiber and connective tissue covering, ft. Wallerian degeneration distally, no recovery w/o surgery

Question 6

what factors are associated with nerve injury recovery?

Answer 6

age, motivation, nature and level of injury, extent of injury, timing and technique of repair

Question 7

how long is the acute phase for nerve injuries ?

Answer 7

3 weeks min of postsurgical immobilization

Question 8

what are the acute interventions for nerve injuries?

Answer 8

pain and edema management, ROM, orthosis use, pt education for protection