Dr. A. Lee Dellon: "Threads of Healing: The Art and Science of Nerve Repair" – A "Giants in Plastic Surgery" Interview

Jan 6, 2025

Dr. A. Lee Dellon, a distinguished plastic and reconstructive surgeon and Johns Hopkins alumnus, shares his journey from medical school to groundbreaking advances in nerve repair. He discusses his pioneering research in diabetic neuropathy and the evolution of nerve surgery techniques. Dellon reflects on the influence of mentors and the importance of education in addressing nerve-related pain. He shares inspiring patient recovery stories, emphasizing compassion and collaboration in modern medicine, while encouraging new generations to pursue the field.

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INSIGHT

Underserved Peripheral Nerve

Peripheral nerve surgery is underappreciated, but Dr. Dellon's work with diabetics led to expanding its application to other neuropathies.
He developed a four-tunnel tarsal tunnel release procedure, improving diabetic foot care.

INSIGHT

Ideal Peripheral Nerve Surgeon

Plastic surgeons are well-suited for peripheral nerve surgery due to their broad training, but other surgical specialists can also contribute.
Interest and the ability to operate throughout the body are key requirements.

ANECDOTE

Origin of Interest

Dr. Dellon's interest in peripheral nerve surgery stemmed from observing discrepancies between neurophysiology teachings and clinical practice in hand examinations.
This led him to develop new examination methods and a concept of sensory re-education.

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In this "Giants in Plastic Surgery" episode of the PRS Global Open Deep Cuts Podcast, A. Lee Dellon discusses his journey through plastic surgery, from his early training at Johns Hopkins to his groundbreaking PhD research on nerve compression. Dr. Dellon discusses how his work in nerve regeneration, particularly in diabetic neuropathy, has shaped modern treatments for chronic pain. Dr. Dellon reflects on the mentors who inspired him, the challenges he's overcome, and his thoughts on the future of nerve compression treatment. This conversation is a deep dive into a career driven by innovation, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of healing.

Read a classic PRS Global Open article by Dr. Dellon and co-authors, "Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy in Leprosy: The Case for Nerve Decompression": https://bit.ly/NDinLeprosy

Dr. A. Lee Dellon is a renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon with an exceptional academic and clinical background. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and its School of Medicine, Dr. Dellon completed extensive training, including a plastic surgery residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital and a hand surgery fellowship at the Raymond M. Curtis Hand Center. He is currently a Professor of Plastic Surgery and Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University and has received a PhD from the University of Utrecht for his groundbreaking research in nerve compression and diabetic neuropathy. Dr. Dellon is board-certified in plastic surgery and holds the Certificate of Added Qualifications in Hand Surgery.

With a research focus on neural regeneration, Dr. Dellon has made significant contributions to the treatment of nerve-related conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy, facial pain, and pelvic pain from pudendal nerve problems. He has received 23 national research awards, authored over 450 peer-reviewed articles, and written seven books, including his latest, Pain Solutions. A founding member of the American Society for Peripheral Nerve and past president of the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Dr. Dellon also directs the Dellon Institutes for Peripheral Nerve Surgery in Baltimore and Henderson, Nevada. His work continues to advance the field of nerve surgery and improve the lives of patients suffering from chronic pain.

Your host, Dr. Vimal Gokani, is a senior Specialty Registrar in plastic surgery in London, England. Your producer & editor, Charlene Kok, is a Year 3 Medical Student in Imperial College London, England, with a keen interest in Plastic Surgery.

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