Neurectomy

Neurectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a segment of a nerve. This procedure is typically performed to alleviate chronic pain, especially when other treatment methods have proven ineffective. The procedure can be performed on various nerves in the body, depending on the location of the pain.

Indications

Neurectomy is often indicated for patients suffering from severe chronic pain that is not responsive to other treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, or nerve blocks. Conditions that may warrant a neurectomy include trigeminal neuralgia, intercostal neuralgia, and morton's neuroma.

Procedure

The procedure involves the surgical removal of a portion of a nerve. The surgeon will first locate the nerve causing the pain, which may involve the use of electromyography or a nerve conduction study. Once the nerve is located, the surgeon will remove a portion of it, effectively interrupting the pain signals being sent to the brain.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a neurectomy. These may include infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Additionally, there is a risk of neuroma formation at the site of the nerve cut. This can lead to increased pain and may require further treatment.

Postoperative Care

Following a neurectomy, patients will typically require a period of rehabilitation to regain function and manage any residual pain. This may involve physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications.

See Also

• Nerve block
• Neuralgia
• Neuroma
• Pain management

Neurectomy Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia