Nerve regeneration techniques respecting the special characteristics of the inferior alveolar nerve
Related Research units
Abstract
PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to examine the in situ regeneration of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in its bony channel, using autologous tissue in combination with a recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 20 New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into five groups. Following dissection of the IAN, the animals underwent reconstruction either with muscle tissue (groups 1 and 2) or with fat tissue (groups 3 and 4). In group 5 (control), the dissected nerve was resected and reconstructed by placement of the reversed autologous segment. After 2 and 4 weeks, 1 mL rhNGF was locally injected in groups 1 and 3. Nerve function was monitored by measuring the jaw-opening reflex using electromyography for a period of 24 weeks.
RESULTS: Regeneration of the nerve was achieved in all groups, but preoperative threshold values were not achieved. Comparing the experimental groups to the control, there was a significant difference in favor of the autologous nerve reconstruction. Differences between the experimental groups remained statistically not significant.
CONCLUSION: Regeneration of the IAN with autologous tissue is possible, but without achieving preoperative thresholds. Additional injection of a growth factor seems to improve the speed of regeneration for fat and muscle grafts.
Bibliographical data
Original language | English |
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ISSN | 1010-5182 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 09.2016 |
PubMed | 27435058 |
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