Artificial nerve conduits in peripheral-nerve repair.
Injuries to the nervous system are the result of mechanical, thermal, chemical or congenital pathologies and, if function is not restored, they lead to loss of muscle function, pain and impaired sensation. Current treatment modalities essentially coapt the two nerves ends together or place a nerve graft between the cut ends. However, clinical results have never been optimal, and therefore a quest for better options has taken place. In this review article we look at the synthetic and biomimetic options currently being tested as potential nerve grafts.
Kannan
Ruben Y
RY
Biomaterial and Tissue Engineering Centre, Department of Surgery, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK.
Salacinski
Henryk J
HJ
Butler
Peter E M
PE
Seifalian
Alexander M
AM
D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D046508:Culture Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009416:Nerve Regeneration; D059348:Peripheral Nerve Injuries; D010525:Peripheral Nerves / Q000601:surgery / Q000637:transplantation; D011100:Polyglycolic Acid / Q000737:chemistry; D012583:Schwann Cells / Q000166:cytology
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011100:Polyglycolic Acid