Different nerve grafting and wrapping options in upper extremity surgery

Scar tissue can interfere with axonal regeneration and ultimate nerve function. Resection of scar tissue, however, results either in a nerve defect (if the scar tissue is intraneural) or the potential for recurrent extraneural scarring. Both biologic and off-the-shelf options exist for bridging short nerve gaps though understanding their limitations will improve the chances of successful application. Similarly, an appreciation of the available biologic and off-the-shelf nerve wrapping options can facilitate choosing the most appropriate adhesion barrier.