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Biomedical subjects

Ulrich Mennen

Publications and source records attributed to Ulrich Mennen.

5 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2005

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita.

Since much confusion exists regarding arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC), the President of the IFSSH commissioned the AMC Committee to compile a report on the various aspects of this condition. This report discusses all the facets of AMC, including definition, terminology, dermographics, aetiology, classification, clinical features, management, prognosis and further studies. Manipulation of the deformities starting soon after birth improves the range of motion, which, if surgery needs to be done, makes the operation less extensive. Sometimes surgery may not even be necessary. Early one-stage corrective surgery between 3 and 12 months of age is encouraged. This results in improved function and near normal cosmetic appearance. Late, piece-meal surgery results in disappointing outcome.

Arthrogryposis↗
PubMed2003

Re-innervation of M. biceps by end-to-side nerve suture.

End-to-side nerve suture (ETSNS) is a viable option to re-innervate a paralysed biceps muscle. The host or donor nerve could be any of the adjacent large nerves including the brachial plexus. It is important to adhere to certain principles when performing ETSNS, e.g. epineural window only, suture line without tension, the recipient nerve should not "kink" in any way and complete immobilisation for at least three weeks. The earlier this ETSNS is done after injury the better the outcome. Patient co-operation and motivation is of the utmost importance. The post-operative rehabilitation programme is essential to "awaken" and strengthen the dormant muscle. Our results are based on five patients. Good elbow flexion, i.e. biceps contraction can be regained after ETSNS of, for example, the musculo-cutaneous nerve into an appropriate viable host nerve.

Adult↗
PubMed2003

End-to-side nerve suture in clinical practice.

The phenomenon of lateral sprouting of axons into an end-to-side sutured recipient nerve is well documented. The exact nature, however, still needs further investigation. Since 1996, we have been continuously involved in primate research as well as using this end-to-side nerve suture (ETSNS) method in clinical practice. Fifty-six patients with a variety of conditions, ranging from brachial plexus avulsion to digital nerve lesions, have been operated. From our experience, it seems that the best results achieved are proximal motor re-innervation (e.g. biceps) and distal sensory re-innervation (e.g. volar skin of the hand). The discussion will cover various aspects for ETSNS in the human patient, such as indications, parameters, technique, and the importance of rehabilitation. ETSNS restores function in conditions previously difficult to operate, and may replace nerve grafting in many instances. It provides an additional method in our armamentarium in peripheral nerve surgery.

Anastomosis, Surgical↗