Artificial nerve conduits in peripheral-nerve repair

Injuries to the nervous system are the result of mechanical, thermal, chemical or congenital pathologies and, if function is not restored, they lead to loss of muscle function, pain and impaired sensation. Current treatment modalities essentially coapt the two nerves ends together or place a nerve graft between the cut ends. However, clinical results have never been optimal, and therefore a quest for better options has taken place. In this review article we look at the synthetic and biomimetic options currently being tested as potential nerve grafts.