Peripheral nerve repair with bioresorbable prosthesis.
Using the transected sciatic nerve model in adult mice, regeneration of a large bundle of axons organized into the form of a nerve with myelinated and unmyelinated axons, Schwann cells, fibroblasts, collagen, blood vessels, and connective tissue sheaths has been achieved with bioresorbable microtubular guidance channels over gaps of 5 mm in nonimmobilized animals. After 4-6 wks postoperatively, the regenerated nerve cable contains on the order of 40% as many myelinated axons as were measured in the proximal nerve stumps. With the channels used so far in this model, regenerating axons pass into the distal stump in about 3-6 wks postoperatively. The guidance channels used consist of synthetic polyesters and/or polyester composites including glycolic and lactic acid polymers, and polyesters derived from Krebs Cycle dicarboxylic acids. Inflammatory response to these materials has been minimal. Biodegradation/resorption rates can be controlled so as to be compatible with axon growth rates.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- Sciatic Nerve
- Prosthesis Design
- Prostheses and Implants
- Polyesters
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice
- Biocompatible Materials
- Animals
Citation
Published In
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Sciatic Nerve
- Prosthesis Design
- Prostheses and Implants
- Polyesters
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice
- Biocompatible Materials
- Animals