Peripheral nerve surgery

What is peripheral nerve surgery?

Peripheral nerve surgery is a specialized field focused on diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the network of nerves located outside the brain and spinal cord. These nerves control movement, sensation, and essential functions throughout the body.
When damaged, compressed, or injured, peripheral nerves can cause pain, weakness, numbness, or loss of function.

 At Biruni Hospital in Turkey our expert neurosurgeons use advanced microsurgical techniques to restore nerve function, relieve symptoms, and improve patients’ quality of life.

When is peripheral nerve surgery needed?

Peripheral nerve surgery is recommended when nonsurgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections do not provide sufficient relief. Surgery may be necessary in the following situations:

• Severe peripheral nerve injuries causing motor or sensory loss
• Nerve compression syndromes, including carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, or thoracic outlet symptoms
• Benign or malignant peripheral nerve tumors, including nerve sheath tumors
• Formation of neuromas causing chronic or severe pain
• Traumatic injuries that disrupt nerve continuity
• Progressive neurological symptoms affecting daily activities

The team at Biruni Hospital evaluates each case using advanced imaging and nerve conduction studies to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Common conditions treated with peripheral nerve surgery

Peripheral nerve disorders can affect people of all ages and may lead to pain, weakness, numbness, or limited mobility. At Biruni Hospital in Turkey, our specialists provide precise diagnosis and advanced surgical treatment for a variety of peripheral nerve conditions. The most common disorders treated with peripheral nerve surgery include:

Thoracic outlet syndrome

This condition occurs when nerves or blood vessels are compressed between the collarbone and the first rib. Symptoms include pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the arm. When conservative treatments fail, thoracic outlet surgery may be required to relieve pressure.

Peripheral nerve tumor

Tumors such as nerve sheath tumors can develop along peripheral nerves. Surgery is performed to remove the tumor while preserving nerve function whenever possible.

Peripheral nerve injuries

Stretch injuries, lacerations, and trauma can interfere with normal nerve signaling. Early surgical intervention improves the chances of successful recovery.

Neuroma

A neuroma is a painful growth of nerve tissue that forms after injury or surgery. Treatment often involves removing the neuroma or reconstructing the affected nerve.

Nerve compression syndromes

Chronic pressure on a nerve can cause weakness, numbness, or loss of muscle function. Decompression surgery restores normal nerve movement and sensation.

Moyamoya disease

Although primarily a cerebrovascular condition, Moyamoya can cause neurological symptoms that require combined evaluation by the peripheral and central nervous system specialists at Biruni Hospital.

Types of peripheral nerve surgeries

Peripheral nerve surgery covers a variety of procedures designed to treat specific nerve problems and help restore movement, sensation, and function.

At Biruni Hospital in Turkey, our experienced neurosurgeons use advanced techniques to address nerve injuries, tumors, compression syndromes, and other conditions. Here’s a closer look at the main types of surgeries and what you can expect during each procedure.

Nerve decompression surgery

This surgery helps relieve pressure on nerves, such as in thoracic outlet syndrome or other compression issues.

What happens during the procedure:

• You’ll be positioned so the surgeon can access the affected nerve safely.
• A small incision is made over the area where the nerve is compressed.
• Any tissue or bone pressing on the nerve is carefully removed.
• The nerve is freed, and any scar tissue is released.
• The incision is closed, and a dressing is applied.
• Recovery begins with careful monitoring and early rehabilitation to help you regain function.

Nerve repair and grafting

This is used when nerves are cut or severely damaged. The surgeon reconnects the nerve or uses a graft to restore function.

During the procedure:

• The surgeon exposes the damaged nerve under a microscope.
• Scar tissue is removed to prepare the healthy nerve ends.
• The nerve ends are connected directly, or a graft is used to bridge the gap.
• The repair is checked for proper alignment.
• The incision is closed, and the area may be immobilized temporarily.
• Gradual rehabilitation starts to help you regain strength and movement.

Tumor removal surgery

This is performed to remove peripheral nerve tumors like nerve sheath tumors while protecting healthy nerve fibers.

Here’s how it works:

• Imaging helps locate the tumor and plan the surgery.
• A careful incision is made to reach the nerve and the tumor.
• Using microsurgical techniques, the tumor is separated from healthy nerve tissue.
• The tumor is removed while keeping nerve function intact.
• The incision is closed, and your nerve function is monitored.
• Follow-up includes rehabilitation and monitoring to prevent recurrence.
  

Neuroma excision and reconstruction

Neuromas are painful nerve growths that can form after injury or surgery. This procedure removes the neuroma and reconstructs the nerve.

Step by step:

• The surgeon locates the neuroma using imaging and intraoperative checks.
• The neuroma is carefully removed.
• The nerve ends are repaired or grafted if needed.
• The nerve is stabilized to prevent future pain.
• The incision is closed, and pain management begins.
• Rehabilitation helps restore function and reduce chronic discomfort.

Thoracic outlet surgery

This specialized surgery relieves nerve or blood vessel compression in the upper chest area.

During the surgery:

• You are positioned to give the surgeon the best access to the thoracic outlet.
• An incision is made to reach the nerves and vessels.
• Muscles, ligaments, or bones compressing the nerves are carefully removed or released.
• The area is checked to make sure all pressure is relieved.
• The incision is closed, and drains may be used temporarily.
• Recovery includes monitoring nerve and blood vessel function and gradual rehabilitation.

Advanced microsurgical techniques

These include nerve transfers, neurolysis, and complex reconstruction for severe injuries.

How it works:

• The surgeon maps the nerve pathways using imaging and intraoperative checks.
• Scar tissue and adhesions are carefully removed.
• Nerve transfers or grafts are performed to restore function in damaged nerves.
• Microsurgical sutures are used to reconstruct the nerves with precision.
• The incision is closed carefully to protect the repaired nerves.
• Intensive rehabilitation follows to maximize recovery and regain strength.

Recovery and rehabilitation after peripheral nerve surgery

Recovery varies depending on the condition and the type of procedure. At Biruni Hospital each patient receives a customized rehabilitation plan that may include:

• Physical therapy and occupational therapy
• Pain management strategies
• Sensory re-education exercises
• Strengthening and mobility training
• Regular neurological follow-up

Nerves regenerate slowly, and full recovery may take weeks to months. The multidisciplinary team at Biruni Hospital guides patients throughout the healing process.

Why choose Biruni Hospital for peripheral nerve surgery?

Biruni Hospital in Turkey is widely recognized for excellence in neurology and neurosurgery. Patients choose our hospital for the following reasons:

• Experienced neurosurgeons specializing in peripheral nerve disorders
• Modern surgical equipment, including high-resolution microscopes and intraoperative monitoring
• Multidisciplinary collaboration between neurology, radiology, orthopedic surgery, and rehabilitation
• Personalized treatment plans for every patient
• Comprehensive services for international patients

Get expert peripheral nerve surgery in Turkey. Treat thoracic outlet syndrome, nerve injuries, tumors, and compression disorders with advanced care.