Clinical diagnosis and treatment of peripheral nerve defects: Clinical guideline from Clinical Research and Application in Orthopedics Branch of Chinese Aging Well Association (CAWA-CRAO)

Peripheral nerve injury is a highly prevalent traumatic disease worldwide, and has caused severe consequences to people regarding their limb function, quality of life, and family and social burden. To better understand and treat peripheral nerve injury in clinical work, we conducted a literature review and performed in-depth research on clinical issues related to peripheral nerve injuries, especially severe defect injury. By adhering to standardized methods and procedures following the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework, we assessed the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations, and present this clinical guideline for practitioners specialized in peripheral nerve repair. This guideline provides 22 evidence-based recommendations covering diagnosis, classification, surgical treatment (autograft, allograft, artificial nerve conduits, nerve/muscle transfer), design of nerve conduits, and postoperative rehabilitation. The aim of this practitioner guideline is to provide up-to-date, evidence-based guidance for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of patients with peripheral nerve defects. This work is expected to provide a reliable and practical reference for practitioners to offer safe and efficient medical services.