Axoplasmic transport block reduces ectopic impulse generation in injured peripheral nerves

Afferent fibers ending in nerve end neuromas in rats generate a substantial ectopic discharge and are sensitive to light pressure and to circulating adrenaline. Treatment of the nerve with colchicine or vinblastine at the time of the nerve section resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in the extent of this discharge. Such treatment also reduced neuroma discharge that had already gotten underway.