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J Reconstr Microsurg 1996; 12(4): 205-210
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006477
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1996 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Nerve Regeneration Through Autogenous Vein Grafts: An Sem Evaluation

Michele Colonna, Giuseppe Pio Anastasi, Giuseppe Cavallaro, Massimo Signorini, Francesco Tomasello
  • Institute of General and Special Surgical Disciplines, Departments of Plastic Surgery, Neurosurgery, and Biomorphology, University of Messina Medical School, and Department of Plastic Surgery, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Publication History

Accepted for publication 1995

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The role of autogenous vein grafts in nerve regeneration was studied in a rat model. Three groups of animals underwent autogenous vein grafting for ischiatic nerve regeneration, and were sacrificed 30,60, and 90 days after surgery. Samples obtained were processed for S.E.M. study. Nerve regeneration consisted of two stages: the first (up to 60 days) was characterized by the presence of active endothelial cells; the second (after 60 days) by cell disappearance, with the venous wall acting as a protective conduit throughout both steps. Complete qualitative morphologic and functional studies of neural regeneration are presented, confirming previous investigations.