Nerve welding using CO2 laser

Abstract

Although microsurgical techniques of nerve suture are now widely practiced, the prognosis is not always satisfactory. In many cases, conventional suture repair results in neuroma formation and a fibrotic reaction that is detrimental to nerve regeneration. Studies on the peripheral nerves in rats and other species have helped in the development of laser-assisted nerve anastomosis. In the field of otorhinolaryngology, facial nerve anastomosis, particularly in difficult-to-reach sites, may need such a non-contact sutureless laser technique to overcome the difficulties of other conventional methods. In this study, 40 rat sciatic nerves were sharply cut then immediately repaired using 100 mW CO2 laser with or without solder (two groups). The rats were followed up to record the functional studies, electrophysiological, and histopathological findings of the two groups (A and B). It was found that laser repair is faster and simpler with more stability and more function with the use of a solder (Group B). The long-term results of this laser nerve welding study are comparable to results of conventional methods in the literature.