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Neill Yun Li

Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery
Orthopaedic Surgery
308 Research Dr, Levine Science Research Center B323A, Durham, NC 27710
308 Research Dr, Levine Science Research Center, Durham, NC 27710

Overview


I lead a peripheral nerve regeneration lab that strives to understand the genetic, cellular, and immunologic responses and interactions that occur following nerve injury and during nerve regeneration. With our aging population, we are further interested in understanding how these change in the context of aging. Through this understanding, we are seeking to develop immunomodulatory interventions and biologics that enhance nerve regeneration and preserve muscle viability for reinnervation to provide our patients with debilitating nerve injuries the best chance for recovery through the advent of cutting-edge therapies.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery · 2022 - Present Orthopaedic Surgery, Clinical Science Departments
Assistant Professor in Neurosurgery · 2023 - Present Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery

Recent Publications


Perioperative Treatment of Neuropathic Pain (Nerve SPACE 2025)

Journal Article Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online · March 1, 2026 Neuropathic pain following brachial plexus and peripheral nerve injury represents one of the most debilitating and least effectively treated sequelae of nerve trauma. Where are we now? Neuropathic pain affects a majority of patients with severe nerve injur ... Full text Cite

Utility of Chitosan-Based Devices in the Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Injuries: A Literature Review.

Journal Article Tissue Eng Part B Rev · February 19, 2026 Chitosan is a resorbable cationic polysaccharide known for its biodegradability and electrostatic and self-aggregation properties. Chitosan has been shown to influence Schwann cell proliferation, reduce scarring, support axon growth, and provide superior p ... Full text Link to item Cite

The Efficacy of Upper Extremity Neuroma Surgery in Reducing Long-Term Opioid Use in Patients with Preoperative Opioid Use.

Journal Article J Reconstr Microsurg · February 2026 Neuromas can cause severe neuropathic pain, leading to functional decline and psychosocial distress. For pain relief, patients refractory to medications for neuropathic pain may be prescribed opioids; however, such use has been shown to have unfortunate ad ... Full text Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


Elucidate the Molecular, Cellular, and Functional Impact of the allay Nerve Cap on Neuroma Formation and Pain Following Nerve Injury

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Tulavi Therapeutics, Inc. · 2025 - 2026

Fresh Tissue Lab

Inst. Training Prgm or CMEPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Acumed LLC · 2026 - 2026

View All Grants

External Links


Google Scholar