The enhancement of nerve regeneration using growth factors: a brief review.
The management of peripheral nerve injuries continues to challenge the surgeon. Despite advances in surgical technique, return of normal function is uncommon after the repair of a transected nerve. It is now possible to enhance the process of nerve regeneration in animals using growth factors carried in silicone nerve guides. In this article the biological process of nerve regeneration is described and contemporary research involving the use of growth factor implants to facilitate nerve regeneration is reviewed.
Woolford
T J
TJ
Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
Toriumi
D M
DM
D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D009414:Nerve Growth Factors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D009416:Nerve Regeneration / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D013268:Stimulation, Chemical; D013997:Time Factors