Use of processed bovine pericard in peripheral nerve surgery

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Nerve damage results in loss of neural sheaths, adherence to surrounding tissues, and impaired movement, leading to pain and functional deficits.
• Restoring physiological function and alleviating pain in damaged nerves requires innovative therapeutic approaches.
• A gliding apparatus can potentially restore nerve function and break the cycle of pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Tutopatch, a processed bovine pericard, as a nerve-wrapping material for damaged peripheral nerves.
• To assess the functional recovery and pain reduction in patients treated with Tutopatch.
• To investigate the biocompatibility and integration of Tutopatch with nerve tissue.

Main Methods:

• Nine patients undergoing peripheral nerve surgery in the upper arm and forearm were included.
• Tutopatch was used to wrap or cover affected nerve segments after freeing them from scar tissue.
• Clinical examinations and high-resolution sonography (HRS) were performed post-surgery.

Main Results:

• All patients experienced improvements in nerve function and significant pain reduction.
• No adverse reactions were observed following the use of Tutopatch.
• High-resolution sonography confirmed successful integration of Tutopatch with surrounding tissues, preventing re-scarring.

Conclusions:

• Tutopatch is a suitable allogeneic biomaterial for nerve wrapping applications.
• The use of Tutopatch facilitates nerve gliding and promotes functional recovery.
• Tutopatch demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and integration, making it a promising option for peripheral nerve repair.