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J Reconstr Microsurg 1995; 11(2): 93-98
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006515
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1995 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Continuous Alteration of the Internal Milieu of a Nerve-Guide Chamber Using an Osmotic Pump and Internal Exhaust System

Karl J. Hekimian, Brooke R. Seckel, David J. Bryan, Kai Kai Wang, Dimitria P. Chakalis, Allison Bailey
  • Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Lahey Clinic, Burlington, Massachusetts
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Publication History

Accepted for publication 1994

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The use of non-neural conduits to span gaps in regenerating peripheral nerves has been noted in the literature for many years. An intriguing addition to this so-called entubulation repair method is the continuous instillation of neuronotrophic or growth factors into the lumen of the guide to bathe the regenerating nerve. A model is presented which uses an osmotic pump that supplies a constant, reproducible amount of solution into the lumen of a nerve guide without disrupting the regeneration process.