When a nerve is cut, microsurgical repair realigns the severed ends so regenerating fibers can reconnect to the muscles and skin they once served.
Performed under
Tension-free coaptation
Best results
Nerve repair is the microsurgical reconnection of a divided nerve. Under high magnification, Dr. Michaeli aligns the internal architecture of the two nerve ends and secures them with sutures finer than a human hair — or, in select cases, with modern nerve-tape coaptation that reduces handling of the delicate tissue.
The goal is a precise, tension-free connection. When the ends can meet without strain, regenerating fibers have the best possible chance to grow across the repair and reach their targets.
Fig: Two repair strategies compared: traditional microsuture coaptation (left) and nerve-tape assisted repair (right).
Sharp, clean cuts to a nerve are ideal candidates for prompt direct repair.
Many traumatic nerve injuries can be repaired or reconstructed with the right timing.
Some patients benefit from revision after an earlier repair did not recover.
The injured nerve is exposed and the healthy ends are identified under magnification.
Damaged tissue is trimmed back to healthy fascicles so the repair joins viable nerve.
The ends are precisely aligned and secured with microsuture or nerve tape, tension-free.
The repair is protected during early healing while motion is preserved in nearby joints.
Peripheral nerve surgery is its own discipline. Dr. Michaeli has dedicated his practice to the nerves, with fellowship-level training and thousands of nerve procedures.
Nerve work is measured in millimeters. Every repair is performed under high-magnification with microsurgical instruments and the latest reconstructive techniques.
Many patients arrive having been told nothing more can be done. A dedicated nerve evaluation often reveals options that general specialists do not offer.
The coaptation is shielded while it heals; gentle therapy preserves joint motion.
Fibers regrow about an inch per month — progress tracked by an advancing Tinel's sign.
Sensation and movement return as fibers reach their targets.
Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgeon · New Jersey & New York
Dr. Michaeli is among the most experienced and trusted peripheral nerve specialists on the East Coast, combining board-certified hand surgery expertise with dedicated peripheral nerve training. He has helped patients across the region regain function when they were told nothing more could be done.
Most peripheral nerve procedures are medically necessary and covered by insurance. Our team will help you understand your benefits and assemble the documentation your plan requires.
How a divided nerve is realigned and repaired, and what to expect as it regenerates.
A short explainer video from Dr. Michaeli will appear here. Replace the poster with your YouTube or Vimeo embed when ready.
“After years of being told my pain was something I’d have to live with, Dr. Michaeli found the nerve causing it and fixed it.”
Neuroma surgery
“I had given up hope of using my hand again. The nerve transfer gave me back movement the other doctors said was gone.”
Nerve transfer
“The carpal tunnel release was quick and the night pain was gone immediately. I only wish I’d done it sooner.”
Carpal tunnel release
