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Daeschler SC, So KJW, Feinberg K, Manoraj M, Cheung J, Zhang J, Mirmoeini K, Santerre JP, Gordon T, Borschel GH. A functional tacrolimus-releasing nerve wrap for enhancing nerve regeneration following surgical nerve repair. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:291-304. [PMID: 38767493 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-22-01198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202501000-00036/figure1/v/2024-05-14T021156Z/r/image-tiff Axonal regeneration following surgical nerve repair is slow and often incomplete, resulting in poor functional recovery which sometimes contributes to lifelong disability. Currently, there are no FDA-approved therapies available to promote nerve regeneration. Tacrolimus accelerates axonal regeneration, but systemic side effects presently outweigh its potential benefits for peripheral nerve surgery. The authors describe herein a biodegradable polyurethane-based drug delivery system for the sustained local release of tacrolimus at the nerve repair site, with suitable properties for scalable production and clinical application, aiming to promote nerve regeneration and functional recovery with minimal systemic drug exposure. Tacrolimus is encapsulated into co-axially electrospun polycarbonate-urethane nanofibers to generate an implantable nerve wrap that releases therapeutic doses of bioactive tacrolimus over 31 days. Size and drug loading are adjustable for applications in small and large caliber nerves, and the wrap degrades within 120 days into biocompatible byproducts. Tacrolimus released from the nerve wrap promotes axon elongation in vitro and accelerates nerve regeneration and functional recovery in preclinical nerve repair models while off-target systemic drug exposure is reduced by 80% compared with systemic delivery. Given its surgical suitability and preclinical efficacy and safety, this system may provide a readily translatable approach to support axonal regeneration and recovery in patients undergoing nerve surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon C Daeschler
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Katelyn J W So
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Konstantin Feinberg
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Marina Manoraj
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jenny Cheung
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Zhang
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kaveh Mirmoeini
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - J Paul Santerre
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tessa Gordon
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gregory H Borschel
- SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Marsh EB, Snyder-Warwick AK, Mackinnon SE, Wood MD. Interpretation of Data from Translational Rodent Nerve Injury and Repair Models. Hand Clin 2024; 40:429-440. [PMID: 38972687 PMCID: PMC11228394 DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
This article highlights the use of rodents as preclinical models to evaluate the management of nerve injuries, describing the pitfalls and value from rodent nerve injury and regeneration outcomes, as well as treatments derived from these rodent models. The anatomic structure, size, and cellular and molecular differences and similarities between rodent and human nerves are summarized. Specific examples of success and failure when assessing outcome metrics are presented for context. Evidence for translation to clinical practice includes the topics of electrical stimulation, Tacrolimus (FK506), and acellular nerve allografts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan B Marsh
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Alison K Snyder-Warwick
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Susan E Mackinnon
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Matthew D Wood
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Naseri S, Samaram H, Naghavi N, Rassouli MB, Mousavinezhad M. Types of Short-Duration Electrical Stimulation-Induced Efficiency in the Axonal Regeneration and Recovery: Comparative in Vivo Study in Rat Model of Repaired Sciatic Nerve and its Tibial Branch after Transection Injury. Neurochem Res 2024:10.1007/s11064-024-04154-4. [PMID: 38856888 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04154-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The restoration of adequate function and sensation in nerves following an injury is often insufficient. Electrical stimulation (ES) applied during nerve repair can promote axon regeneration, which may enhance the likelihood of successful functional recovery. However, increasing operation time and complexity are associated with limited clinical use of ES. This study aims to better assess whether short-duration ES types (voltage mode vs. current mode) are able to produce enhanced regenerative activity following peripheral nerve repair in rat models. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: no ES (control), 30-minute ES with a current pulse, and 30-minute ES with a voltage pulse. All groups underwent sciatic nerve transection and repair using a silicone tube to bridge the 6-mm gap between the stumps. In the 2 groups other than the control, ES was applied after the surgical repair. Outcomes were evaluated using electrophysiology, histology, and serial walking track analysis. Biweekly walking tracks test over 12 weeks revealed that subjects that underwent ES experienced more rapid functional improvement than subjects that underwent repair alone. Electrophysiological analysis of the newly intratubular sciatic nerve at week 12 revealed strong motor function recovery in rats that underwent 30-minute ES. Histologic analysis of the sciatic nerve and its tibial branch at 12 weeks demonstrated robust axon regrowth in all groups. Both types of short-duration ES applied during nerve repair can promote axon regrowth and enhance the chances of successful functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Naseri
- Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Azadi Square, Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan Province, 9177948374, Iran
| | - Hosein Samaram
- Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Azadi Square, Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan Province, 9177948374, Iran
| | - Nadia Naghavi
- Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Azadi Square, Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan Province, 9177948374, Iran.
| | | | - Maryam Mousavinezhad
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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Acharya N, Acharya AM, Bhat AK, Upadhya D, Punja D, Suhani S. The outcome of polyethylene glycol fusion augmented by electrical stimulation in a delayed setting of nerve repair following neurotmesis in a rat model. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2023; 165:3993-4002. [PMID: 37907766 PMCID: PMC10739326 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-023-05854-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Polyethylene glycol is known to improve recovery following its use in repair of acute peripheral nerve injury. The duration till which PEG works remains a subject of intense research. We studied the effect of PEG with augmentation of 20Htz of electrical stimulation (ES) following neurorrhaphy at 48 h in a rodent sciatic nerve neurotmesis model. METHOD Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups. In group I, the sciatic nerve was transected and repaired immediately. In group II, PEG fusion was done additionally after acute repair. In group III, repair and PEG fusion were done at 48 h. In group IV, ES of 20Htz at 2 mA for 1 h was added to the steps followed for group III. Weekly assessment of sciatic functional index (SFI), pinprick, and cold allodynia tests were done at 3 weeks and euthanized. Sciatic nerve axonal count and muscle weight were done. RESULTS Groups II, III, and IV showed significantly better recovery of SFI (II: 70.10 ± 1.24/III: 84.00 ± 2.59/IV: 74.40 ± 1.71 vs I: 90.00 ± 1.38) (p < 0.001) and axonal counts (II: 4040 ± 270/III: 2121 ± 450/IV:2380 ± 158 vs I: 1024 ± 094) (p < 0.001) at 3 weeks. The experimental groups showed earlier recovery of sensation in comparison to the controls as demonstrated by pinprick and cold allodynia tests and improved muscle weights. Addition of electrical stimulation helped in better score with SFI (III: 84.00 ± 2.59 vs IV: 74.40 ± 1.71) (p < 0.001) and muscle weight (plantar flexors) (III: 0.49 ± 0.02 vs IV: 0.55 ± 0.01) (p < 0.001) in delayed repair and PEG fusions. CONCLUSION This study shows that PEG fusion of peripheral nerve repair in augmentation with ES results in better outcomes, and this benefit can be demonstrated up to a window period of 48 h after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanda Acharya
- Department of Physiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 576104
| | - A M Acharya
- Department of Hand Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 576104
| | - Anil K Bhat
- Department of Hand Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 576104.
| | - Dinesh Upadhya
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 576104
| | - Dhiren Punja
- Department of Physiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 576104
| | - Sumalatha Suhani
- Department of Anatomy, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 576104
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Feinberg K, Tajdaran K, Mirmoeini K, Daeschler SC, Henriquez MA, Stevens KE, Mulenga CM, Hussain A, Hamrah P, Ali A, Gordon T, Borschel GH. The Role of Sensory Innervation in Homeostatic and Injury-Induced Corneal Epithelial Renewal. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12615. [PMID: 37628793 PMCID: PMC10454376 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the window through which we see the world. Corneal clarity is required for vision, and blindness occurs when the cornea becomes opaque. The cornea is covered by unique transparent epithelial cells that serve as an outermost cellular barrier bordering between the cornea and the external environment. Corneal sensory nerves protect the cornea from injury by triggering tearing and blink reflexes, and are also thought to regulate corneal epithelial renewal via unknown mechanism(s). When protective corneal sensory innervation is absent due to infection, trauma, intracranial tumors, surgery, or congenital causes, permanent blindness results from repetitive epithelial microtraumas and failure to heal. The condition is termed neurotrophic keratopathy (NK), with an incidence of 5:10,000 people worldwide. In this report, we review the currently available therapeutic solutions for NK and discuss the progress in our understanding of how the sensory nerves induce corneal epithelial renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Feinberg
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kiana Tajdaran
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Kaveh Mirmoeini
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Simeon C. Daeschler
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, BG Trauma Hospital, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Heidelberg, 67071 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Mario A. Henriquez
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Katelyn E. Stevens
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Chilando M. Mulenga
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Arif Hussain
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Asim Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada
| | - Tessa Gordon
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Gregory H. Borschel
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Wolf JM, Mathieu L, Tintle S, Wilson K, Luria S, Vandentorren S, Boussaud M, Strelzow J. A global perspective on gun violence injuries. Injury 2023:S0020-1383(23)00392-3. [PMID: 37183087 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2023.04.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITIONS Civilian gunshot violence is a growing public health issue on a global scale. Treatment of patients with gunshot injuries is based on algorithms derived from military studies, but the distinct differences in weaponry, energy of injury, timing and type of care, and environment translate to a gap in knowledge. With a focus on non-accidental gunshot trauma and excluding suicide etiologies, we propose to build a collaborative research group to address important questions focused on best practices for gunshot injury patients. PRE-HOSPITAL CARE There are important differences in the care of gunshot victims across the globe; some countries provide advanced interventions in the field and others deliver basic support until transport to a higher level of care in hospital. Some simple interventions include the use of extremity tourniquets and intravenous fluid support; others to consider are tranexamic acid, whole blood, and hemostatic agents. ACUTE TREATMENT Control of exsanguinating hemorrhage is a key priority for gunshot injuries. Military doctrine has evolved to prioritize exsanguination over airway or breathing as the critical first step. The X-ABC protocol focuses on exsanguinating hemorrhage, then standard evaluation of Airway, Breathing and Circulation (ABCs) to enhance survival in trauma patients. The timing of bony stabilization, in terms of damage-control vs definitive care, needs further study in this population, as does use of antibiotics for bony extremity injuries. Finally, recognition of the mental health effects of gun trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, substance abuse and depression is important in advocating for prevention such as implementation of social support and specific interventions. DEFINITIVE CARE The need for abdominal closure after exploratory laparotomy, definitive fracture treatment, and other treatment all contribute to length of stay for gunshot injured patients. Optimizing stabilization allows earlier mobilization and decreases nosocomial complications. Nerve injuries are often a source of long-term disability and their evaluation and treatment require further investigation. RESOURCES AND ETHICS There are growing numbers of mass-casualty gunshot events, which require consideration of how to organize and use resources for treatment, including staff, operating room access, blood products, and order of treatment. Drills and planning for incident command hierarchy and communication are key to optimizing resource utilization. The ethics of choosing treatment priorities and resources are important considerations as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Moriatis Wolf
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand Surgery Fellowship, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Room P211, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Laurent Mathieu
- Department of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Edouard Herriot Hospital, 5 place d'Arsonval, Lyon 69003, France; Department of Surgery, French Military Health Service Academy, Ecole du Val-de-Grâce, Paris, France
| | - Scott Tintle
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, MD, USA
| | - Kenneth Wilson
- Division of Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shai Luria
- Hand and Microvascular Surgery, Hadassah University Hospital, Kiryat Hadassah, POB 12000, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Stephanie Vandentorren
- Direction Scientifique et International, Santé Publique France, INSERM UMR 1219, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, PHARes Team, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; Centre National de Ressources et de Résilience Lille-Paris (CN2R), Lille, France
| | - Marie Boussaud
- Department of Psychiatry, Percy Military Hospital, 101 Avenue Henri Barbusse, Clamart 92140, France
| | - Jason Strelzow
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hand Surgery Fellowship, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Room P211, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Jin MY, Weaver TE, Farris A, Gupta M, Abd-Elsayed A. Neuromodulation for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration: Systematic Review of Mechanisms and In Vivo Highlights. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041145. [PMID: 37189763 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
While denervation can occur with aging, peripheral nerve injuries are debilitating and often leads to a loss of function and neuropathic pain. Although injured peripheral nerves can regenerate and reinnervate their targets, this process is slow and directionless. There is some evidence supporting the use of neuromodulation to enhance the regeneration of peripheral nerves. This systematic review reported on the underlying mechanisms that allow neuromodulation to aid peripheral nerve regeneration and highlighted important in vivo studies that demonstrate its efficacy. Studies were identified from PubMed (inception through September 2022) and the results were synthesized qualitatively. Included studies were required to contain content related to peripheral nerve regeneration and some form of neuromodulation. Studies reporting in vivo highlights were subject to a risk of bias assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The results of 52 studies indicate that neuromodulation enhances natural peripheral nerve regeneration processes, but still requires other interventions (e.g., conduits) to control the direction of reinnervation. Additional human studies are warranted to verify the applicability of animal studies and to determine how neuromodulation can be optimized for the greatest functional restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Y Jin
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Tristan E Weaver
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
| | - Adam Farris
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
| | - Mayank Gupta
- Kansas Pain Management & Neuroscience Research Center, Overland Park, KS 66210, USA
| | - Alaa Abd-Elsayed
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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8
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Evans AG, Joseph KS, Samouil MM, Hill DS, Ibrahim MM, Assi PE, Joseph JT, Kassis SA. Nerve blocks for occipital headaches: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol 2023; 39:170-180. [PMID: 37564833 PMCID: PMC10410037 DOI: 10.4103/joacp.joacp_62_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine surgeons have identified six "trigger sites" where cranial nerve compression may trigger a migraine. This study investigates the change in headache severity and frequency following nerve block of the occipital trigger site. This PRISMA-compliant systematic review of five databases searched from database inception through May 2020 is registered under the PROSPERO ID: CRD42020199369. Only randomized controlled trials utilizing injection treatments for headaches with pain or tenderness in the occipital scalp were included. Pain severity was scored from 0 to 10. Headache frequency was reported as days per week. Included were 12 RCTs treating 586 patients of mean ages ranging from 33.7 to 55.8 years. Meta-analyses of pain severity comparing nerve blocks to baseline showed statistically significant reductions of 2.88 points at 5 to 20 min, 3.74 points at 1 to 6 weeks, and 1.07 points at 12 to 24 weeks. Meta-analyses of pain severity of nerve blocks compared with treatment groups of neurolysis, pulsed radiofrequency, and botulinum toxin type A showed similar headache pain severity at 1 to 2 weeks, and inferior improvements compared with the treatment groups after 2 weeks. Meta-analyses of headache frequency showed statistically significant reductions at 1 to 6-week follow-ups as compared with baseline and at 1 to 6 weeks as compared with inactive control injections. The severity and frequency of occipital headaches are reduced following occipital nerve blocks. This improvement is used to predict the success of migraine surgery. Future research should investigate spinous process injections with longer follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam G. Evans
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Marc M. Samouil
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Dorian S. Hill
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Patrick E. Assi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeremy T. Joseph
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Salam Al Kassis
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Evans A, Padovano WM, Patterson JMM, Wood MD, Fongsri W, Kennedy CR, Mackinnon SE. Beyond the Cubital Tunnel: Use of Adjunctive Procedures in the Management of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome. Hand (N Y) 2023; 18:203-213. [PMID: 33794683 PMCID: PMC10035096 DOI: 10.1177/1558944721998022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our management of cubital tunnel syndrome has expanded to involve multiple adjunctive procedures, including supercharged end-to-side anterior interosseous to ulnar nerve transfer, cross-palm nerve grafts from the median to ulnar nerve, and profundus tenodesis. We also perform intraoperative brief electrical stimulation in patients with severe disease. The aims of this study were to evaluate the impact of adjunctive procedures and electrical stimulation on patient outcomes. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of 136 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome who underwent operative management from 2013 to 2018. A total of 38 patients underwent adjunctive procedure(s), and 33 received electrical stimulation. A historical cohort of patients who underwent cubital tunnel surgery from 2009 to 2011 (n = 87) was used to evaluate the impact of adjunctive procedures. Study outcomes were postoperative improvements in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire scores, pinch strength, and patient-reported pain and quality of life. RESULTS In propensity score-matched samples, patients who underwent adjunctive procedures had an 11.3-point greater improvement in DASH scores than their matched controls (P = .0342). In addition, patients who received electrical stimulation had significantly improved DASH scores relative to baseline (11.7-point improvement, P < .0001), whereas their control group did not. However, when compared between treatment arms, there were no significant differences for any study outcome. CONCLUSIONS Patients who underwent adjunctive procedures experienced greater improvement in postoperative DASH scores than their matched pairs. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the effects of brief electrical stimulation in compression neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Evans
- Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA
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10
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Keane GC, Marsh EB, Hunter DA, Schellhardt L, Walker ER, Wood MD. Lidocaine Nerve Block Diminishes the Effects of Therapeutic Electrical Stimulation to Enhance Nerve Regeneration in Rats. Hand (N Y) 2023; 18:119S-125S. [PMID: 35579211 PMCID: PMC9896284 DOI: 10.1177/15589447221093668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although electrical stimulation (ES) can improve nerve regeneration, the impact of nerve block, such as lidocaine (Lido), on the therapeutic benefits of ES remains unclear. We used a rat tibial nerve transection-and-repair model to explore how either preoperative (PreOp) or postoperative (PostOp) nerve block affects ES-related improvement in regeneration. METHODS Lewis rats were used in 1 of 2 studies. The first evaluated the effects of extraneural Lido on both healthy and injured nerves. In the second study, rats were randomized to 5 experimental groups: No ES (negative control), PreOp Lido, ES + PreOp Lido, PostOp + ES, and ES (positive control). All groups underwent tibial nerve transection and repair. In both studies, nerves were harvested for histological analysis of regeneration distal to the injury site. RESULTS Application of extraneural Lido did not damage healthy or injured nerve based on qualitative histological observations. In the context of nerve transection and repair, the ES group exhibited improved axon regeneration at 21 days measured by the total number of myelinated fibers compared with No ES. Fiber density and percentage of neural tissue in the ES group were greater than those in both No ES and PreOp Lido + ES groups. ES + PostOp Lido was not different from No ES or ES group. CONCLUSIONS Extraneural application of Lido did not damage nerves. Electrical stimulation augmented nerve regeneration, but Lido diminished the ES-related improvement in nerve regeneration. Clinical studies on the effects of ES to nerve regeneration may need to consider nerve block as a variable affecting ES outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C. Keane
- Washington University School of
Medicine in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Evan B. Marsh
- Washington University School of
Medicine in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Matthew D. Wood
- Washington University School of
Medicine in St. Louis, MO, USA
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11
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Marsh EB, Schellhardt L, Hunter DA, Mackinnon SE, Snyder-Warwick AK, Wood MD. Electrical stimulation or tacrolimus (FK506) alone enhances nerve regeneration and recovery after nerve surgery, while dual use reduces variance and combines strengths of each in promoting enhanced outcomes. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:78-87. [PMID: 36333946 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Repaired nerve injuries can fail to achieve functional recovery. Therapeutic options beyond surgery, such as systemic tacrolimus (FK506) and electrical stimulation (E-stim), can improve recovery. We tested whether dual administration of FK506 and E-stim enhances regeneration and recovery more than either therapeutic alone. METHODS Rats were randomized to four groups: E-stim, FK506, FK506 + E-stim, and repair alone. All groups underwent tibial nerve transection and repair. Two sets of animals were created to measure outcomes of early nerve regeneration using nerve histology (n = 36) and functional recovery (n = 42) (21- and 42-day endpoints, respectively). Functional recovery was measured by behavioral analyses (walking track and grid walk) and, at the endpoint, muscle mass and force. RESULTS Dual E-stim and FK506 administration produced histomorphometric measurements of nerve regeneration no different than either therapeutic alone. All treatments were superior to repair alone (FK506, P < .0001; E-stim, P < .05; FK506 + E-stim, P < .05). The E-stim and FK506 + E-stim groups had improved behavioral recovery compared with repair alone (at 6 weeks: E-stim, P < .05; FK506 + E-stim, P < .01). The FK506 group had improved recovery based on walking-track analysis (at 6 weeks: P < .001) and muscle force and mass (P < .05). The concurrent use of both therapies ensured earlier functional recovery and decreased variability in functional outcomes compared with either therapy alone, suggesting a moderate benefit. DISCUSSION Dual administration of FK506 and E-stim showed minimal additive effects to further improve regeneration or recovery compared with either therapy alone. The data suggest the combination of FK506 and E-stim appears to combine the relative strengths of each therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan B Marsh
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lauren Schellhardt
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Daniel A Hunter
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Susan E Mackinnon
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Alison K Snyder-Warwick
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Matthew D Wood
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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12
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Graesser EA, Dy CJ, Brogan DM. Future Considerations in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Compressive Neuropathies of the Upper Extremity. JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY GLOBAL ONLINE 2022. [PMID: 37521547 PMCID: PMC10382897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsg.2022.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Compressive neuropathies of the upper extremity are among the most common conditions seen by hand surgeons. The diagnoses of carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome have traditionally been made by a combination of history, physical examination, and electrodiagnostic testing. However, findings can be nonspecific and electrodiagnostic testing is invasive for the patient. The diagnosis of compressive neuropathies continues to evolve as technology advances, and newer diagnostic modalities predominantly focus on preoperative diagnostic imaging with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging/neurography. With the advent of cheaper, faster, and less invasive imaging, the future may bring a paradigm shift away from electrophysiology as the gold standard for the preoperative diagnosis of compressive neuropathies. Intraoperative imaging of nerve health is an emerging concept that warrants further investigation, whereas postoperative imaging of nerve recovery with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging currently has a limited role because of nonspecific findings and potential for misinterpretation. Advances in surgical treatment of compressive neuropathies appear to center around the use of imaging for less invasive neurolysis techniques and other adjunctive treatments with nerve decompression. The management of failed peripheral nerve decompressions and recurrent compressive neuropathies remains challenging.
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13
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Outcome Analysis of Medial Triceps Motor Nerve Transfer to Axillary Nerve in Isolated and Brachial Plexus-Associated Axillary Nerve Palsy. Plast Reconstr Surg 2022; 149:1380-1390. [PMID: 35613287 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000009148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since 2007, the authors have performed the triceps-to-axillary nerve transfer using the medial triceps branch to reconstruct axillary nerve function in brachial plexus and isolated axillary nerve palsies. METHODS A retrospective chart review was undertaken of patients reconstructed with this transfer, recording patient and injury demographics and time to surgery. Preoperative and postoperative function was graded using the Medical Research Council scale and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. RESULTS Postoperatively, 31 patients (64.6 percent) reached Medical Research Council grade 3 or higher at final follow-up. The median Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 59.9 (interquartile range, 38.8 to 70.5) preoperatively and 25.0 (interquartile range, 11.3 to 61.4) at final follow-up. Sixteen patients (33 percent) had isolated axillary nerve injury; the median Medical Research Council grade was 4.25 (interquartile range, 3 to 4.25), with 14 patients (87.6 percent) achieving grade 3 or higher. Thirty-two patients (77 percent) had brachial plexus-associated injury; median Medical Research Council grade was 3 (interquartile range, 2 to 3), with 17 patients (53.1 percent) achieving grade 3 or higher. CONCLUSION Medial triceps nerve branch is a strong donor for triceps-to-axillary nerve transfer; however, injury factors may limit the motor recovery in this complex patient population, particularly in axillary nerve palsy associated with brachial plexus injury. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, IV.
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14
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Barham M, Streppel M, Guntinas-Lichius O, Fulgham-Scott N, Vogt J, Neiss WF. Treatment With Nimodipine or FK506 After Facial Nerve Repair Neither Improves Accuracy of Reinnervation Nor Recovery of Mimetic Function in Rats. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:895076. [PMID: 35645727 PMCID: PMC9136327 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.895076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Nimodipine and FK506 (Tacrolimus) are drugs that have been reported to accelerate peripheral nerve regeneration. We therefore tested these substances aiming to improve the final functional outcome of motoric reinnervation after facial nerve injury. Methods In 18 female rats, the transected facial nerve was repaired by an artificial nerve conduit. The rats were then treated with either placebo, nimodipine, or FK506, for 56 days. Facial motoneurons were pre-operatively double-labeled by Fluoro-Gold and again 56 days post-operation by Fast-Blue to measure the cytological accuracy of reinnervation. The whisking motion of the vibrissae was analyzed to assess the quality of functional recovery. Results On the non-operated side, 93–97% of those facial nerve motoneurons innervating the vibrissae were double-labeled. On the operated side, double-labeling only amounted to 38% (placebo), 40% (nimodipine), and 39% (FK506), indicating severe misdirection of reinnervation. Regardless of post-operative drug or placebo therapy, the whisking frequency reached 83–100% of the normal value (6.0 Hz), but whisking amplitude was reduced to 33–48% while whisking velocity reached 39–66% of the normal values. Compared to placebo, statistically neither nimodipine nor FK506 improved accuracy of reinnervation and function recovery. Conclusion Despite previous, positive data on the speed and quantity of axonal regeneration, nimodipine and FK506 do not improve the final functional outcome of motoric reinnervation in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Barham
- Department II of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- *Correspondence: Mohammed Barham,
| | - Michael Streppel
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat-Department (ENT), PAN-Clinic at Neumarkt, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Nicole Fulgham-Scott
- Department I of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Johannes Vogt
- Department II of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wolfram F. Neiss
- Department I of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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15
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Keane GC, Pan D, Roh J, Larson EL, Schellhardt L, Hunter DA, Snyder-Warwick AK, Moore AM, Mackinnon SE, Wood MD. The Effects of Intraoperative Electrical Stimulation on Regeneration and Recovery After Nerve Isograft Repair in a Rat Model. Hand (N Y) 2022; 17:540-548. [PMID: 32666827 PMCID: PMC9112755 DOI: 10.1177/1558944720939200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Therapeutic electrical stimulation (ES) applied to repaired nerve is a promising treatment option to improve regeneration. However, few studies address the impact of ES following nerve graft reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to determine if ES applied to a nerve repair using nerve isograft in a rodent model could improve nerve regeneration and functional recovery. Methods: Adult rats were randomized to 2 groups: "ES" and "Control." Rats received a tibial nerve transection that was repaired using a tibial nerve isograft (1.0 cm length), where ES was applied immediately after repair in the applicable group. Nerve was harvested 2 weeks postrepair for immunohistochemical analysis of axon growth and macrophage accumulation. Independently, rats were assessed using walking track and grid-walk analysis for up to 21 weeks. Results: At 2 weeks, more robust axon regeneration and greater macrophage accumulation was observed within the isografts for the ES compared to Control groups. Both walking track and grid-walk analysis revealed that return of functional recovery was accelerated by ES. The ES group demonstrated improved functional recovery over time, as well as improved recovery compared to the Control group at 21 weeks. Conclusions: ES improved early axon regeneration into a nerve isograft and was associated with increased macrophage and beneficial M2 macrophage accumulation within the isograft. ES ultimately improved functional recovery compared to isograft repair alone. This study supports the clinical potential of ES to improve the management of nerve injuries requiring a nerve graft repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deng Pan
- Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joseph Roh
- Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Matthew D. Wood
- Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA,Matthew D. Wood, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 8238, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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16
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Peters BR, Pripotnev S, Chi D, Mackinnon SE. Complete Foot Drop With Normal Electrodiagnostic Studies: Sunderland "Zero" Ischemic Conduction Block of the Common Peroneal Nerve. Ann Plast Surg 2022; 88:425-428. [PMID: 34864748 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Common peroneal neuropathy is a peripheral neuropathy of multifactorial etiology often left undiagnosed until foot drop manifests and electrodiagnostic abnormalities are detected. However, reliance on such striking symptoms and electrodiagnostic findings for diagnosis stands in contrast to other commonly treated neuropathies, such as carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel syndrome. Poor recognition of common peroneal neuropathy without foot drop or the presence of foot drop with normal electrodiagnostic studies thus often results in delayed or no surgical treatment. Our cases document 2 patients presenting with complete foot drop who had immediate resolution after decompression. The first patient presented with normal electrodiagnostic studies representing an isolated Sunderland Zero nerve ischemia. The second patient presented with severe electrodiagnostic studies but also had an immediate improvement in their foot drop representing a Sunderland VI mixed nerve injury with a significant contribution from an ongoing Sunderland Zero ischemic conduction block. In support of recent case series, these patients demonstrate that common peroneal neuropathy can present across a broad diagnostic spectrum of sensory and motor symptoms, including with normal electrodiagnostic studies. Four clinical subtypes of common peroneal neuropathy are presented, and surgical decompression may thus be indicated for these patients that lack the more conventional symptoms of common peroneal neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stahs Pripotnev
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - David Chi
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Susan E Mackinnon
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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17
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Roh J, Schellhardt L, Keane GC, Hunter DA, Moore AM, Snyder-Warwick AK, Mackinnon SE, Wood MD. Short-Duration, Pulsatile, Electrical Stimulation Therapy Accelerates Axon Regeneration and Recovery following Tibial Nerve Injury and Repair in Rats. Plast Reconstr Surg 2022; 149:681e-690e. [PMID: 35139047 PMCID: PMC8969122 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000008924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repair of nerve injuries can fail to achieve adequate functional recovery. Electrical stimulation applied at the time of nerve repair can accelerate axon regeneration, which may improve the likelihood of recovery. However, widespread use of electrical stimulation may be limited by treatment protocols that increase operative time and complexity. This study evaluated whether a short-duration electrical stimulation protocol (10 minutes) was efficacious to enhance regeneration following nerve repair using rat models. METHODS Lewis and Thy1-green fluorescent protein rats were randomized to three groups: 0 minutes of electrical stimulation (no electrical stimulation; control), 10 minutes of electrical stimulation, and 60 minutes of electrical stimulation. All groups underwent tibial nerve transection and repair. In the intervention groups, electrical stimulation was delivered after nerve repair. Outcomes were assessed using immunohistochemistry, histology, and serial walking track analysis. RESULTS Two weeks after nerve repair, Thy1-green fluorescent protein rats demonstrated increased green fluorescent protein-positive axon outgrowth from the repair site with electrical stimulation compared to no electrical stimulation. Serial measurement of walking tracks after nerve repair revealed recovery was achieved more rapidly in both electrical stimulation groups as compared to no electrical stimulation. Histologic analysis of nerve distal to the repair at 8 weeks revealed robust axon regeneration in all groups. CONCLUSIONS As little as 10 minutes of intraoperative electrical stimulation therapy increased early axon regeneration and facilitated functional recovery following nerve transection with repair. Also, as early axon outgrowth increased following electrical stimulation with nerve repair, these findings suggest electrical stimulation facilitated recovery because of earlier axon growth across the suture-repaired site into the distal nerve to reach end-organ targets. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Brief (10-minute) electrical stimulation therapy can provide similar benefits to the 60-minute protocol in an acute sciatic nerve transection/repair rat model and merit further studies, as they represent a translational advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Roh
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Lauren Schellhardt
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Grace C. Keane
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Daniel A. Hunter
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Amy M. Moore
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Alison K. Snyder-Warwick
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Susan E. Mackinnon
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
| | - Matthew D. Wood
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
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18
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Sayanagi J, Acevedo-Cintrón JA, Pan D, Schellhardt L, Hunter DA, Snyder-Warwick AK, Mackinnon SE, Wood MD. Brief Electrical Stimulation Accelerates Axon Regeneration and Promotes Recovery Following Nerve Transection and Repair in Mice. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2021; 103:e80. [PMID: 34668879 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.20.01965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical outcomes following nerve injury repair can be inadequate. Pulsed-current electrical stimulation (ES) is a therapeutic method that facilitates functional recovery by accelerating axon regeneration. However, current clinical ES protocols involve the application of ES for 60 minutes during surgery, which can increase operative complexity and time. Shorter ES protocols could be a strategy to facilitate broader clinical adoption. The purpose of the present study was to determine if a 10-minute ES protocol could improve outcomes. METHODS C57BL/6J mice were randomized to 3 groups: no ES, 10 minutes of ES, and 60 minutes of ES. In all groups, the sciatic nerve was transected and repaired, and, in the latter 2 groups, ES was applied after repair. Postoperatively, changes to gene expression from dorsal root ganglia were measured after 24 hours. The number of motoneurons regenerating axons was determined by retrograde labeling at 7 days. Histomorphological analyses of the nerve were performed at 14 days. Function was evaluated serially with use of behavioral tests up to 56 days postoperatively, and relative muscle weight was evaluated. RESULTS Compared with the no-ES group, both ES groups demonstrated increased regeneration-associated gene expression within dorsal root ganglia. The 10-minute and 60-minute ES groups demonstrated accelerated axon regeneration compared with the no-ES group based on increased numbers of labeled motoneurons regenerating axons (mean difference, 202.0 [95% confidence interval (CI), 17.5 to 386.5] and 219.4 [95% CI, 34.9 to 403.9], respectively) and myelinated axon counts (mean difference, 559.3 [95% CI, 241.1 to 877.5] and 339.4 [95% CI, 21.2 to 657.6], respectively). The 10-minute and 60-minute ES groups had improved behavioral recovery, including on grid-walking analysis, compared with the no-ES group (mean difference, 11.9% [95% CI, 3.8% to 20.0%] and 10.9% [95% CI, 2.9% to 19.0%], respectively). There was no difference between the ES groups in measured outcomes. CONCLUSIONS A 10-minute ES protocol accelerated axon regeneration and facilitated functional recovery. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The brief (10-minute) ES protocol provided similar benefits to the 60-minute protocol in an acute sciatic nerve transection/repair mice model and merits further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Sayanagi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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19
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Evolving Techniques in Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. J Hand Surg Am 2021; 46:695-701. [PMID: 34140178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2021.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Reliable and robust peripheral nerve regeneration after a nerve injury and repair remains an elusive goal. A variety of strategies have been proposed to mitigate the effects of Wallerian degeneration (through molecular therapies), enhance axonal regeneration across the repair site (through electrical stimulation and gene therapy), and explore alternatives to suture coaptation (through the fusion of transected ends). Although most of these techniques are in their infancy, animal data and some clinical trials have demonstrated promise for improving the restoration of function after these devastating injuries.
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20
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Cilingir-Kaya OT, Sumer O, Sirvanci S, Gurler EB, Akcal A, Karsidag S. Effect of Tacrolimus on Peripheral Nerve Regeneration in Allograft Transplantation: A Light and Electron Microscopic Study. EXP CLIN TRANSPLANT 2021; 19:1322-1327. [PMID: 34018473 DOI: 10.6002/ect.2021.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Peripheral nerve injuries are common in Europe; however, the treatment techniques may lead to disabilities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of tacrolimus use on the capacity of the epineural sheath graft to improve its regeneration quality in rat sciatic nerves as a treatment option for nerve injuries. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the experimental process, 30 male Sprague Dawley were used as recipients and 10 Wistar rats were used as donors. Under anesthesia, all rats were operated on to resect the sciatic nerve. The nerve tissue of Wistar rats was used as allograft. In the autograft group, the resected nerve was reversed and sutured, resulting in an epineural sheath graft. For the allograft groups, rats were randomly divided into 2 groups as the tacrolimus-treated group and the nontreated group after allograft transplant. Tacrolimus was administered intramuscularly at 0.1 mg/kg daily for 12 weeks. After the treatment period, rats were killed and evaluated histomorphologically with light and electron microscopy. RESULTS Histological examination showed no remarkable differences between different regions of the sciatic nerves (distal, middle, and proximal). The axonal density was decreased in the allograft groups compared with the autograft group (P < .001). Results showed that the number of mast cells was increased in the allograft group without tacrolimus treatment (P < .05). Similarly, there was a mild increase in mast cell count in the tacrolimus-treated allograft group. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that tacrolimus use in rats with implanted epineural nerve sheath supported recovery in terms of morphological and physiological regeneration of the nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Tugce Cilingir-Kaya
- From the Marmara University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul, Turkey
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21
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Koh GP, Fouad C, Lanzinger W, Willits RK. Effect of Intraoperative Electrical Stimulation on Recovery after Rat Sciatic Nerve Isograft Repair. Neurotrauma Rep 2020; 1:181-191. [PMID: 34223540 PMCID: PMC8240900 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2020.0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries, associated with significant morbidity, can benefit from electrical stimulation (ES), as demonstrated in animal studies through improved axonal growth. This study combined the clinical gold standard of isograft repair in a rat model of sciatic nerve injury to evaluate the effects of intraoperative ES on functional tests and histology. Forty rats underwent a surgically induced gap injury to the right sciatic nerve and subsequent repair with an isograft. Half of these rats were randomly selected to receive 10 min of intraoperative ES. Functional testing, including response time to a heat stimulus and motor functional tests, were conducted. Histology of the sciatic nerves and gastrocnemius muscles were analyzed after 6 and 12 weeks of recovery. Rats that underwent ES treatment showed incremental improvements in motor function between weeks 2 and 12, with a significantly higher push-off response than the no-ES controls after 6 weeks. Although no differences were detected between groups in the sensory testing, significant improvements over time were noted in the ES group. Histology parameters, sciatic nerve measures, and gastrocnemius muscle weights demonstrated nerve recovery over time for both the ES and no-ES control groups. Although ES promoted improvements in motor function comparable to that in previous studies, the benefits of intraoperative ES were not detectable in other metrics of this rat model of peripheral nerve injury. Future work is needed to optimize sensory testing in the rodent injury model and compare electrical activity of collagen scaffolds to native tissue to detect differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina P Koh
- Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - Carol Fouad
- Orthopedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - William Lanzinger
- Orthopedic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - Rebecca Kuntz Willits
- Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA.,Mechanical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA.,Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA.,Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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22
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Restoration of Neurological Function Following Peripheral Nerve Trauma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051808. [PMID: 32155716 PMCID: PMC7084579 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Following peripheral nerve trauma that damages a length of the nerve, recovery of function is generally limited. This is because no material tested for bridging nerve gaps promotes good axon regeneration across the gap under conditions associated with common nerve traumas. While many materials have been tested, sensory nerve grafts remain the clinical “gold standard” technique. This is despite the significant limitations in the conditions under which they restore function. Thus, they induce reliable and good recovery only for patients < 25 years old, when gaps are <2 cm in length, and when repairs are performed <2–3 months post trauma. Repairs performed when these values are larger result in a precipitous decrease in neurological recovery. Further, when patients have more than one parameter larger than these values, there is normally no functional recovery. Clinically, there has been little progress in developing new techniques that increase the level of functional recovery following peripheral nerve injury. This paper examines the efficacies and limitations of sensory nerve grafts and various other techniques used to induce functional neurological recovery, and how these might be improved to induce more extensive functional recovery. It also discusses preliminary data from the clinical application of a novel technique that restores neurological function across long nerve gaps, when repairs are performed at long times post-trauma, and in older patients, even under all three of these conditions. Thus, it appears that function can be restored under conditions where sensory nerve grafts are not effective.
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