A new vascularized nerve graft model in the rabbit.

The macro- and microanatomy of the rabbit median nerve were studied for the purpose of developing a vascularized nerve graft (VNG) model. A segment of median nerve was then designed as a vascularized graft to serve as a model. This model consists of a 1-cm long median nerve segment and its accompanying brachial artery and vein 3 cm in length, with an arteriovenous fistula created distally. The model was tested by using the VNG to repair an intratemporal facial nerve defect and proven to be reliable. Its monofascicular pattern and diameter match those of the reconstructed facial nerve, making this model unique, compared to other models previously described.