Direct nerve repair before (above) and after (below) suture.

When nerves are cut or torn apart with trauma, they need to be reattached so that recovery can occur. Using a microscope, the nerve ends are re-attached with very fine sutures, which are difficult to see without the microscope.

The nerve and its sub-compartments (fascicles) are attached in proper orientation based on anatomical features. Sometimes a dab of fibrin glue is also used to seal this repair. It is important that there is no tension.