[Transplanting neural stem cells in nerve conduit to promote rats facial nerve regeneration].

OBJECTIVE

To construct a biodegradable PLGA nerve conduit (NC) filled with NSCs in order to improve facial nerve regeneration.

METHOD: SD rats were subjected to right facial nerve transection, and PLGA NCs filled with NSCs were used to bridge the nerve gap. Facial nerve regeneration was assessed 4 and 12 weeks after surgery, through electrophysiological testing, and morphometric analysis of axons.

RESULT: Nerve action potential amplitude, and axonal area were significantly greater in the NSCs group than the empty NC group.

CONCLUSION

NSCs transplantation may improve regeneration of the facial nerve.