Clinical Outcomes of “Paralyzed” Nerve Transfer for Treating Spinal Cord Injury: A Proof of Concept in a Human Model

This study explores a new surgical technique called “paralyzed” nerve transfer to improve function in individuals with high cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). This involves transferring non-functional nerves to restore electrical excitability in paralyzed muscles. The procedure aims to increase the number of muscles available for functional electrical stimulation (FES) systems, potentially enhancing system functionality and patient outcomes. The case study follows a 28-year-old male with a C4 spinal cord injury who underwent paralyzed nerve transfers and achieved restoration of elbow flexion with surface stimulation two years post-operatively.

• 1
  Paralyzed nerve transfer can successfully restore electrical excitability in muscles affected by lower motor neuron (LMN) damage in a human patient with high cervical SCI.
• 2
  The patient achieved 90-degree anti-gravity flexion of the biceps with surface stimulation two years post-operatively, demonstrating improved muscle function.
• 3
  The restoration of stimulated elbow flexion, combined with FES modalities, can potentially restore the ability to perform activities of daily living.