Abstract
BackgroundPositive neurotrophic effects of hyperbaric oxygen treatment may be more easily achieved by applying a Perflourocarbon (PFC) emulsion gel to the repair site. PFCs are halogen substituted carbon oils with unique oxygen transport potentials that are capable of increasing oxygen availability in local tissues. The purpose of this study was to determine if the application of a PFC emulsion to a repaired nerve would improve recovery.Materials and methodsThe left tibial nerve of 21 immature female Sprague-Dawley rats was transected, immediately repaired, and then circumferentially coated with PFC gel (Group A, n = 7), PFC-less gel (Group B, n = 7), or nothing (suture only, Group C, n = 7). At eight weeks post surgery, electrophysiological testing and histological and morphological analysis was performed.ResultsNo statistically significant differences between experimental groups were found for muscle size and weight, axon counts, or nerve conduction velocity. Group A had a significantly smaller G-ratio than Groups B and C (p < .0001).ConclusionOverall results do not indicate a functional benefit associated with application of a PFC emulsion gel to rodent tibial nerve repairs. A positive effect on myelination was seen.
Highlights
Positive neurotrophic effects of hyperbaric oxygen treatment may be more achieved by applying a Perflourocarbon (PFC) emulsion gel to the repair site
Overall results do not indicate a functional benefit associated with application of a PFC emulsion gel to rodent tibial nerve repairs
Strategies to increase tissue oxygenation at the repair site have received some attention in the past, though this has generally focused on hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO)
Summary
Positive neurotrophic effects of hyperbaric oxygen treatment may be more achieved by applying a Perflourocarbon (PFC) emulsion gel to the repair site. Hyperbaric oxygenation treatment to improve nerve regeneration, involves emersion of the subject (patient or animal) in a pressurized and enriched oxygen environment for several hours at a time following the nerve repair. Results of this approach are mixed, but several reports suggest a positive effect[3,4,5,6,7]. When applied around a nerve repair, PFCs may be able to provide local oxygen transport to damaged tissues without the disadvantages associated with HBO. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of a PFC emulsion gel on functional nerve regeneration
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