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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


Differentiating Outcomes and Complications Between Extraplexal Tendon Transfers and Arthrodesis for Shoulder Reanimation Following Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury: A Systematic Review and Proportional Meta-Analysis.

Journal Article J Clin Med · November 7, 2025 Background: Glenohumeral arthrodesis (GHA) and extraplexal tendon transfers (TT) have been described as options for secondary shoulder stabilization and reanimation following adult traumatic brachial plexus injury (BPI) with delayed presentation or failure ... Full text Link to item Cite

Cervical chordoma en bloc resection and staged suprascapular nerve transfer reanimation: illustrative case.

Journal Article J Neurosurg Case Lessons · October 27, 2025 BACKGROUND: Cervical chordomas offer unique challenges to en bloc resection given their proximity to complex anatomy. Achieving tumor-free margins often requires extensive reconstruction that can limit radiotherapy dosing and postoperative visualization du ... Full text Link to item Cite

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

Journal Article Tissue Eng Part B Rev · September 23, 2025 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
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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 Duke Hand Society · 2025 - 2025

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External Links


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