[The experimental study of the facial nerve regeneration in silicone chamber: the influence of nerve growth factor].

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the role of NGF in the regeneration of facial nerve.

METHODS

The superior buccal division of facial nerve of adult New Zealand rabbit was transected and a nerve growth chamber created. The chamber of the experimental side was filled with NGF/normal saline and that of the control side with normal saline alone. Four and eight weeks after operation, the regenerated nerves in the chambers were dissected for histological studies.

RESULTS

Four weeks after operation, the average thickness of myelin sheath and the average number of myelinated axons were 0.779 +/- 0.475 micron, 2.024 +/- 1.999 (n = 11) in experimental group and 0.413 +/- 0.132 micron, 368 +/- 171 (n = 8) in control sides respectively. There was significant difference between the experimental sides and control sides (P < 0.05). Eight weeks after operation, the regenerated nerve appeared more mature. There were significant difference in the average diameters, the thickness of myelin sheath and the number of myelinated axons between the experimental and control sides (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NGF within a silicone chamber enhanced facial nerve regeneration in New Zealand rabbits.