Mechanical Loading for Peripheral Nerve Stabilization and Regeneration
Abstract
Peripheral nerve damage is one consequence of injury to the extremities of soldiers by improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The degree of functional recovery from peripheral nerve damage is often poor, particularly for severed nerves. The result can be impaired motor function, sensory loss, and chronic pain with inappropriate autonomic responses. Consequently, strategies for enhancing nervous function are of high military relevance. Towards the development of more effective nerve regeneration strategies, this proposal addresses the hypothesis that moderate tensile loading (stretch) of peripheral nerves can stabilize nerve degradation and also promote accelerated regeneration. Our project aims are to 1) To examine the impact of low levels of tensile loading on the Wallerian degeneration of proximal and distal stumps of severed peripheral nerves and 2) To examine the impact of moderate levels of tensile loading on promoting the outgrowth and functional connectivity of severed peripheral nerves. To meet these aims, in the final project period, based on results from initial in vivo implantations, we completed characterization of proximal and distal nerve stumps following 3-6 weeks of device implantation. No adverse effects were observed following 20% initial deformation, suggesting that, at minimum, tension provides a head start for nerve regeneration. Long-term survival surgeries will be required to formally test whether functional recovery is accelerated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA590530
Entities
People
- Robin Wilson
- Sameer B Shah
- Ting-hsien Chuang
Organizations
- University of California, San Diego