Open surgical implantation of a viable cryopreserved placental membrane after decompression and neurolysis of common peroneal nerve: a case series

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to report on the rehabilitative outcomes associated with common peroneal nerve (CPN) decompression and neurolysis revision when performed with open surgical implantation of a viable cryopreserved placental membrane (vCPM). METHODS: Seven patients who underwent secondary CPN decompression and neurolysis with open surgical implantation of a viable cryopreserved placental membrane (vCPM) after previously failed surgery without vCPM utilization were identified through a retrospective medical record review and outcomes were analyzed. Primary mechanism of injury, severity of symptoms at time of referral, pre-operative and post-operative evaluations on edema with ultrasound, Medical Research Council (MRC) scale for motor strength, range of motion, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), and electromyography (EMG) were analyzed. RESULTS: Five patients (71.4%) achieved full recovery of motor function MRC grade 5/5, and the remaining two patients achieved MRC grade 4/5. At the 7-month follow-up visit, NCV tests indicated improved conduction velocity and normal amplitude for all 7 patients, and all patients demonstrated proper gait pattern with a return to normal activities of daily living. There were no vCPM-related adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: The use of vCPM wrap as an adjunct to surgical repairs of CPN injuries may contribute to positive clinical outcomes.