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Chronic access to endoneurial space using an arterial autograft
J S Kroin1, J M Henderson, H Weinrib
1Department of Neurosurgery, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL 60612.
Journal of Neuroscience Methods
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Researchers developed a novel method for direct chronic infusion of compounds to peripheral axons in rats. This technique, using a transplanted arterial segment, allowed endoneurial access for 3-7 days, showing potential for nerve growth factor delivery.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Surgical Innovation
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Direct drug delivery to peripheral nerves is challenging due to the perineurial barrier.
- Existing methods often fail to achieve sustained access to endoneurial space for therapeutic compounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a novel technique for direct chronic infusion of compounds onto peripheral axons.
- To assess the feasibility and patency of an endoneurial arterial access system in rats.
Main Methods:
- A 2 cm segment of the rat femoral artery was transplanted into the endoneurial space of the peroneal nerve.
- The arterial segment was connected to a catheter for direct endoneurial infusion, bypassing the perineurium.
- System patency was confirmed by lidocaine-induced inhibition of the toe-spreading reflex.
Main Results:
- The arterial access system remained operational for 3-7 days post-transplantation.
- Histological changes were observed in the nerve, but no functional deficits resulted from the surgical procedure.
- The technique provided limited, but direct, access to axons for compound delivery.
Conclusions:
- The developed technique offers a viable, albeit short-term, method for direct endoneurial infusion in peripheral nerves.
- This approach may be suitable for specific applications, such as delivering nerve growth factors to injured nerves.
- Further research is needed to optimize the system for long-term functionality and minimize histological changes.