Research progress of biomaterial conduit in repairing facial nerve injury.

BACKGROUND

Facial nerve injury poses a major challenge in otolaryngology, where functional restoration remains critical. As autologous nerve grafts present limitations, biomaterial-based nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) offer a viable alternative for bridging nerve defects.

OBJECTIVE

This review covers the updated research results in NGCs in the past five years.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Recent publications were critically reviewed.

RESULTS

This review highlights recent progress in advanced biomaterials and manufacturing methods for NGC fabrication, with emphasis on functionalization strategies-such as incorporation of stem cells, bioactive factors, topographic cues, and electrical stimulation-to synergistically enhance axonal regrowth, myelination, and functional recovery. Overall, biomaterial conduits are advancing as multifunctional integrated systems, showing strong translational potential for precision repair of facial nerves.

CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE: Over the past five years, research emphasis in this field has shifted toward developing composite conduit materials capable of actively guiding neural regeneration through the incorporation of biochemical and biological cues.