Evaluation of functional nerve recovery after reconstruction with a new biodegradable poly (DL-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone) nerve guide

The aim of this study was to evaluate functional nerve recovery following reconstruction of a 1 cm gap in the sciatic nerve of a rat, using a new biodegradable p (DLLA-epsilon-CL) nerve guide. To evaluate both motor and sensory nerve recovery, walking track analysis and electrostimulation tests were carried out after implantation periods, ranging from 3 to 15 weeks post-operatively. The first signs of functional nerve recovery were observed after 3 weeks. After 15 weeks, 70% of the motor - and 90% of the sensory nerve function was re-established. Return of nerve function was better in comparison with results from other studies. This study demonstrated successful functional nerve recovery after the reconstruction of a 1 cm nerve gap with a biodegradable p(DLLA-epsilon-CL) nerve guide.