Functional muscle strength recovery from nail gun injury to the primary motor cortex

Functional recovery following injury to the primary motor cortex is an uncommon phenomenon, given the limited ability of neurons of the adult central nervous system to regenerate. We report on a patient with near complete functional muscle strength recovery from a marked monoparesis due to nail gun injury to the medial primary motor cortex. Besides surgical decision-making, we discuss possible related mechanisms and current challenges in the regenerative processes responsible for the functional recovery. To achieve a favorable outcome, surgical decision-making to prevent secondary damage is of upmost importance. Lesion-induced inflammatory response may potentiate endogenous neurogenesis and neuronal plasticity and potentially contribute to the regenerative process involved.