Journal of Research in Rehabilitation Sciences
The Effect of Selective Temporary Anaesthesia in Combination with Sensory Re-education on Impovement of Hand Sensitivity after Median/ Ulnar Nerve Repair
Document Type : Original Articles
Authors
1 Iran University of Medical Sciences
2 MD- Plastic Surgey of Hand
3 Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty, Iran University of Medical Sciences
4 Occupational Therapy
Abstract
Background:The outcom of nerve repair in adult is often poor. We hypothesized that forearm would enhance the sensory outcome by increasing the cortical hand representation. Materials and Methods:A prospective, randomized and double-blind study was designed. During 2 weeks a Topical anaesthetic ointment (Lidocaine-PTC, n = 6) or placebo (n=7) was applied repeatedly (twice a week) under occlusive bandage on the flexor aspect of injured forearm combined with sensory re-education for one hour. Regular Assessments of sensory function prior to the experiment and after the fourth application of Lidocaine-PTC /placebo and 4 weeks after the last Lidocaine-PTC /placebo session were performed.Results:After 6 weeks the lidocaine-ptc group had a significant improvement in touch and pressure perception in comparison with placebo group.In placebo group, no significant changes were seen. Two-point discrimination improved significantly only in the Lidocaine-PTC group (p=0.005).Conclusion:The findings suggest that forearm differentiation of injured limb, in combination with sensory re-education, can enhance sensory reovery after nerve repair.Keywords: Nerve repair, selective anaesthesia, sensory re-education
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