Name of the Procedure:

Collagen Nerve Cuff (Neuromatrix), per 0.5 centimeter length
Common name(s): Collagen nerve cuff, Neuromatrix
Technical/medical term: C9355

Summary

A collagen nerve cuff is a small, flexible tube made of collagen that is used in surgical procedures to repair or regenerate damaged peripheral nerves. It is placed around the damaged nerve to provide structural support and facilitate nerve healing.

Purpose

Medical Conditions: Peripheral nerve injuries, nerve damage due to trauma or surgery. Goals/Outcomes: To promote nerve regeneration, reduce pain and restore function in the affected area by providing a scaffold for nerve growth.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions: Loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or pain due to nerve damage.
Patient Criteria: Suitable for patients with partial or complete nerve injuries that require surgical intervention for improved healing and function.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting for at least 8 hours if under general anesthesia.
• Stopping certain medications as advised by the doctor.
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol before surgery. Diagnostic Tests:
• Nerve conduction studies.
• Electromyography (EMG).
• Imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound to assess the extent of nerve damage.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.
2. An incision is made near the damaged nerve.
3. The damaged nerve is carefully exposed.
4. The collagen nerve cuff is placed around the damaged section of the nerve.
5. The cuff is secured in place to ensure proper alignment.
6. The incision is closed with sutures. Tools/Equipment: Surgical instruments, collagen nerve cuff (Neuromatrix). Anesthesia: General or local anesthesia with sedation as required.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the nerve damage.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon specialized in nerve repair.
• Anesthesiologist.
• Surgical nurses.
• Possibly an assistant surgeon or surgical technologist.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection.
• Inflammation.
• Mild pain or discomfort at the incision site. Rare Risks:
• Allergic reactions to the collagen material.
• Nerve regeneration failure. Possible Complications:
• Persistent numbness or weakness.
• Need for additional surgeries if the initial repair is unsuccessful.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Enhanced nerve regeneration.
• Reduction of pain.
• Improved sensation and muscle function. Timeline:
• Some benefits may be felt within weeks, but full nerve regeneration may take several months.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Keeping the surgical site clean and dry.
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring.
• Avoiding strenuous activities as advised by the doctor. Recovery Time:
• Initial recovery may take 2-4 weeks.
• Complete nerve healing may take several months. Restrictions:
• Limited movement of the affected area.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to aid recovery.

Alternatives

• Nerve grafts.
• Synthetic nerve conduits.
• Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or occupational therapy. Pros and Cons:
• Nerve grafts may have a higher success rate but require additional surgery.
• Synthetic conduits offer an alternative scaffold but may not integrate as well with natural tissue.
• Non-surgical treatments are less invasive but may not be effective for severe nerve damage.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Under general anesthesia: completely asleep.
• Under local anesthesia: awake but not feeling pain, with possible sedation. After the Procedure:
• Mild pain or discomfort managed with medications.
• Possible numbness or tingling as nerves begin to regenerate.
• Importance of following post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.