Primary Surgery

Nerve Transfer Pre-Operation

Nerve Transfer Post-Operation

Decompression is a relatively simple surgery where the nerve is explored and any pinching areas of surrounding tissue are removed; then, like a garden hose that has been unpinched, the flow should improve and result in return of function. This is meant for cases where there is swelling of the peroneal nerve but minimal actual tearing of the nerve.

Nerve grafting is used in situations where the nerve has been torn and healthy nerve from elsewhere is used to replace the lost part of the peroneal nerve. Nerve grafting is a useful technique in many other places in the body, but for unknown reasons, it does not seem to work well for the peroneal nerve.

Nerve transfer is a new technique pioneered by Dr. Nath, where a part of the adjacent tibial nerve (allows pushing down of the foot, as when stepping on the gas) is rerouted into the peroneal nerve, therby supplying power to the ankle for lifting up; the foot drop is then corrected while still maintaining the ability to step on the gas.