Long-term subjective and objective outcomes after digital nerve repair: a cohort study

Digital nerve injuries are common, but few studies report long-term effects for the individual. The primary aim of this matched-pairs study comparing digital nerve injuries in border digits or central fingers was to investigate hand function 3-10 years after digital nerve repair, assessed using the Mini Sollerman test in 86 patients. Secondary outcomes were sensory function, range of motion, grip strength and patient-reported measures. No significant difference was seen in hand function between the groups, except for lower grip strength in patients with central finger injury. Tactile discrimination was achieved in 87%, with best results among participants aged less than 44 years. Touch perception was measurable in 99%. No statistically significant differences in sensory function were found between the groups. Patient-reported disability was low, with median Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score of 5, but half of the patients reported neuropathic pain. Numbness and cold sensitivity were the symptoms graded worst after digital nerve injury.<b>Level of evidence:</b> III.