Segmental Defects in Peripheral Nerves Xenotransplantation

Abstract

Segmental defects in peripheral nerves that cannot be sutured directly require the use of nerve grafts. The ideal option for repair is nerve auto grafting, but there are some obvious disadvantages related to its use, such as lack of availability and donor site morbidity. The next step to consider for reconstruction is the use of nerve allografts, but they are also limited for clinical use, and they present with the added problem of graft rejection. Considering these limitations to the use of nerve autografts and allografts, clinical surgery research has turned to nerve xenotransplantation, which offers a potentially unlimited source of donor nerves.