Effect of Collagen Nerve Wrapping in a Rabbit Peripheral Neuropathy Model

Collagen nerve wraps (CNWs) theoretically allow for improved nerve gliding and decreased perineural scarring, and create a secluded environment to allow for nerve myelination and axonal healing. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of CNWs on nerve gliding as assessed by pull-out strength and nerve changes in a rabbit model of peripheral neuropathy.

Ten New Zealand rabbits were included. Sham surgery (control) was performed on left hindlimbs. To simulate compressive neuropathy, right sciatic nerves were freed of the mesoneurium, and the epineurium was sutured to the wound bed. Five rabbits were euthanized at 6 weeks [scarred nerve (SN); n = 5]. Neurolysis with CNW was performed in the remaining rabbits at 6 weeks (CNW; n = 5), which were euthanized at 22 weeks. Outcomes included peak pull-out force and histopathological markers of nerve recovery (axonal and Schwann cell counts).

The CNW group demonstrated significantly higher pull-out forces compared with the CNW sham control group (median: 4.40N versus 0.37N, P = 0.043) and a trend toward greater peak pull-out forces compared with the SN group (median: 4.40N versus 2.01N, P = 0.076). The CNW group had a significantly higher median Schwann cell density compared with the CNW control group (CNW: 1.30 × 10^-3 cells/μm² versus CNW control: 7.781 × 10^-4 cells/μm², P = 0.0431) and SN group (CNW: 1.30 × 10^-3 cells/μm² versus SN: 7.31 × 10^-4 cells/μm², P = 0.009). No significant difference in axonal density was observed between groups.

Our findings suggest using a CNW does not improve nerve gliding, but may instead play a role in recruiting and/or supporting Schwann cells and their proliferation.