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J Reconstr Microsurg 1993; 9(5): 341-346
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006741
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1993 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Sciatic Nerve Regeneration Across Gaps within Collagen Chambers: The Influence of Epidermal Growth Factor

Annie S. Dubuisson, Roger W. Beuermann, David G. Kline
  • Department of Neurosurgery and LSU Eye Center, Louisiana State University Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
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Publication History

Accepted for publication 1993

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The effects of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) on axonal regeneration of a sectioned sciatic nerve within collagen tubes were investigated in 15 rats. Following baseline electrophysiologic assessment, bilateral 7-mm nerve gaps were created and repaired by interposition of collagen tubes, into which EGF (left side) or type I collagen (right side) was instilled. After 4 or 8 weeks, axonal regeneration, measured by electro-physiologic and histologic means, was identical for the EGF and control legs. The conclusion is that EGF does not influence nerve regeneration within a collagen chamber.