EVALUATION OF BIODEGRADABLE POLYGLYCOLIC ACID MESH SCAFFOLD AS A NERVE CONDUIT FOR FACIAL NERVE DEFECT IN RABBITS

The aim of this study was to evaluate efficiency of a biodegradable polyglycolic acid mesh (PGA) as a nerve conduit in facial nerve defect in a rabbit model. Sixteen healthy adult rabbits were randomly divided into two equal groups (n=8). In group A, a 0.5 cm of left dorsal buccal branch of facial nerve was transected and coaptated using PGA mesh conduit while in group B, (Control), which had a 0.5 cm defect without anastomosis. Clinical and histopathological evaluations were done. In group A, clinical evaluation showed normal symmetry of whisker movement at 16 weeks postoperatively while in group B, there was
absence of whisker during the study period. Gross pathological examinations showed complete absorption of the mesh and reconnection of the nerve stumps while group B, showed no reconnection with neuroma formation at the proximal stump. Histopathological finding in group A, showed good myelination of regenerated nerve fibers and deposition of collagen fibers while in group B, showed degenerative nerve fibers and scar tissue formation. Ultrastructural of group A, showed good myelination, presence of active Schwann cells and deposition of collagen fibers while in group B degenerated axon, degenerative Schwann cells and heavy deposition of collagen fibers were noticed. In conclusion. The PGA mesh conduit
is acceptable for facial nerve regeneration in rabbits