Sleeve insertion and collagen coating improve nerve regeneration through vein conduits.

Vein grafts have been used as conduits for nerve regeneration in both research protocols and clinical situations. Results to date are encouraging. This study investigated several variations in the vein graft model in an attempt to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration. Results showed that the jugular vein, with an improved suture technique made possible by its larger diameter, is superior to the femoral vein as a conduit for regeneration of the sciatic nerve in the rat. The larger diameter of the jugular vein and its lack of valves provided less hinderance to regenerating axons. Results also showed that coating the luminal epithelium of the jugular vein with type I collagen gel greatly improved regeneration.