[Preliminary studies on histological changes after repairing the facial nerve defect with acellular facial nerve].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the morphological changes after chemically extracted acellular nerve allografts transplant.

METHODS

Seventy-two rabbits were divided into four groups. Acellular allografts of facial nerve were used in experimental group, and facial nerve autografts, acellular peroneal nerve allografts and peroneal nerve autografts respectively used in three control groups. The morphological changes after transplant were evaluated by modified trichrome staining, immunohistological staining and transmission electron microscope.

RESULTS

The two facial nerve grafts showed numerous regenerated nerve fibers, vessels and as well as a spindle schwann cells arranged longitudinally. No significant difference was observed in the fiber number and myelin thickness between the two groups,while the two peroneal nerve groups showed poor regeneration 6 months after operation.

CONCLUSIONS

The facial nerve allografts showed more neurite regeneration six months after transplant, and the regenerated axons passed through the distal stoma and there were well revascularized and proliferated schwann cells in the grafts.