Abstract
Purpose: We have previously reported successful functional peroneal nerve regeneration in dogs through use of a polyglycolic acid (PGA)-collagen tube filled with collagen fibers at 12 months. In the present investigation, nerve regeneration was examined after 4–5 years implantations. Methods: Nerve conduits consisting of a PGA-collagen tube filled with collagen fibers were implanted into an 80-mm gap of the left peroneal nerve of 8 beagle dogs. 4–5 years after implantation, nerve regeneration was evaluated electrophysiologically and histologically, and compared to those after 12 months operation in our previous reports. Results: Partial recovery of motor and sensory systems was demonstrated with restored compound muscle action potentials and somatosensory evoked potential records after 4–5 years implantations. Amplitudes in these records were higher than those at 12 months. Histologically, the mid-portion of the regenerated segments and the non-resected portions of the nerve distal to the conduit consisted of numerous myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers at 4–5 years implantation. The regenerated nerve fibers of the latter portion were much more matured in diameter and percentages of neural tissue than those at 12 months operation. Conclusions: Further nerve regenerations were demonstrated at long term periods compared to 12 months implantation. Long-term observation is essential for the evaluation of nerve regeneration after implantation.
Published Version
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