Pain problems as outlined above. Less than 1% incidence predicted.

Infection at the incision sites in the ankle and calf. This is usually treated successfully with antibiotics. We have had minor wound infections in about 6% of our patients.

Opening (dehiscence) of the ankle or calf wound. This is treated by allowing healing in of the wound by itself, which can take 3 to 6 weeks or more with local dressing changes. Surgical closure of the wound is rarely required, but is possible. 2-4% incidence predicted.

Additional anesthesia time is necessary to sew in the grafts. Once the determination that grafts are required is made, harvesting of the grafts can begin while prostate surgery continues. However, placement and suturing requires additional time in addition to the actual cancer resection. About 20 minutes are needed for one nerve graft and about 40 minutes for two grafts. This additional time increases the risks associated with general anesthesia, including heart, lung, kidney, brain, and other organ injury. In addition, the risk of sudden death during the operation increases.

Because of the additional surgical time, there may be a slightly increased need for blood transfusions, which would not otherwise be required. This would increase the risk of contracting blood-borne diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis, and other communicable diseases. There are often no good treatments for these diseases if they occur. Very low incidence predicted.

Increased risk of abdominal infection because the abdominal wound is open for a longer time. We have not had any incidents of abdominal wound infections in our series.