Direct Reconnection of Cervical Nerves to Restore Forelimb Mobility in a Mouse

Source: Gao, Z., et al. A Mouse Model of Direct Anastomosis via the Prespinal Route for Crossing Nerve Transfer Surgery. J. Vis. Exp. (2021).This video demonstrates restoring forelimb movement in a mouse via direct cervical nerve reconnection. It begins with a mouse with a paralyzed right forelimb due to a transected right C7 nerve at its nerve root. The left C7 nerve is severed, guided to the right via the prespinal route, and sutured with the right C7 nerve. The surgical site is then cleaned and closed.