Adipose Tissue Uses in Peripheral Nerve Surgery
Allison Podsednik1, Raysa Cabrejo2, Joseph Rosen2
1The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine, Edinburg, TX 78541, USA.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|January 21, 2022
Summary
Fat grafting enhances peripheral nerve repair by providing stem cells. This review examines animal studies to determine which surgical techniques benefit most from this adjunct therapy for improved nerve regeneration outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Neurosurgery
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Peripheral nerve injuries often require surgical intervention, including nerve repair, grafts, and transfers.
- Fat grafting, utilizing adipose-derived stem cells, is increasingly used adjunctively in nerve surgeries.
- Current evidence is insufficient to determine the specific benefits of fat grafting across different peripheral nerve repair procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review animal studies investigating the outcomes of concomitant fat grafting during various peripheral nerve surgeries.
- To identify which peripheral nerve surgical techniques may show improved results when combined with fat grafting.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of animal studies.
- Analysis of outcomes reported in studies involving nerve repair, grafts, and transfers with concurrent fat grafting.
Main Results:
- Evidence from animal models suggests potential benefits of fat grafting in certain peripheral nerve repair scenarios.
- Specific surgical techniques and outcome measures varied across studies, necessitating careful interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Fat grafting shows promise as an adjunct to peripheral nerve surgery in animal models.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the optimal application and efficacy of fat grafting in human peripheral nerve repair.
