We describe a time-saving microsurgical exercise for continuing microsurgical training and research. The rat tail replantation model was simplified by excluding bone detachment. Rats were divided into two groups: devascularization only ( N = 3) and revascularization after devascularization ( N = 7). The tail was devascularized by ligation and division of artery and veins in the first group to reveal if a collateral circulation from bone existed. The divided vessels were reanastomosed in the second group. The circulation of the rat tails was followed for 1 week. The tails showed total necrosis in the devascularization group, whereas only two of seven tails showed partial necrosis in the revascularization group. Reexploration showed thrombosis narrowing the lumen at the anastomotic site of the partially necrosed tails, most likely due to an anastomotic insufficiency. The present study revealed that total amputation is not necessary for tail devascularization. The rat tail revascularization model provides a practical tool for advanced and continuing microsurgical training and research.

Genistein was shown to promote recovery in experimental peripheral neuropathy and chronic peripheral nerve injury (23,24). However, the effect of genistein in animal models of acute crush injury or complete transection of peripheral nerve has not yet been investigated.The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of genistein after experimental sciatic nerve crush injury and complete sciatic nerve transection in rats and to compare its effects with those of gabapentin. █ INTRODUCTIONA lthough microsurgical techniques have been developed and positive effects of clinically and experimentally different neurotrophic drugs, steroids, hormones, and even low-dose radiation have been reported, desirable motor and sensory recovery after peripheral nerve injury is a clinical challenge (6,16,18,20,25). Methylprednisolone and gabapentin are considered as reference agents, against which the medical treatment of traumatic peripheral nerve injury is evaluated. However, their adverse effects are a major limitation associated with their clinical use (16). AIM:To investigate the effects of genistein in a rat model of sciatic nerve crush injury and complete sciatic nerve transection. The effects of genistein were compared with those of gabapentin, which is widely used in clinical practice for peripheral nerve injury. MATERIAL and METHODS:Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into six groups (8 rats in each group): group 1 (sham); group 2, sciatic nerve crush injury (control); group 3, sciatic nerve crush injury+genistein 20 mg/kg; group 4, sciatic nerve crush injury+gabapentin 90 mg/kg; group 5, sciatic nerve transection+genistein 20 mg/kg; group 6, sciatic nerve transection+gabapentin 90 mg/kg. The effects of genistein and gabapentin were assessed with immunohistochemical staining for growth associated protein-43 (GAP-43) and myelin basic protein (MBP). Interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor α levels in the injured nerve specimens were assessed as a measure of inflammatory response; walking track analysis and sciatic function index for neurological recovery and the paw mechanical withdrawal threshold were examined for neuropathic pain. RESULTS:On histopathological examination, genistein use was associated with a greater immunoreactivity for GAP-43 and MBP compared with that associated with gabapentin. Genistein and gabapentin had similar effects on anti-inflammatory activity, functional recovery, and neuropathic pain. CONCLUSION:Genistein and gabapentin exhibit positive effects on histopathology, inflammation, and clinical findings of peripheral nerve injury. When the systemic side effects of gabapentin are considered, genistein (a basic soy isoflavone that has no side effects) can be used as an alternative to medical treatment in peripheral nerve injury.

CCI-CCR-tramadol treatment is highly effective in the symptomatic treatment of neuropathic pain. CCR-curcumin is associated with less degeneration and high levels of regeneration in the nerve tissue.

Background: Successful limb replantation must be based not only on the viability of the amputated part but also on satisfactory long-term functional recovery. Once the vascular, skeletal, and soft-tissue problems have been taken care of, nerve recovery becomes the ultimate limiting factor. Unfortunately, nerve regeneration after limb replantation is impaired by several consequences. The authors tested the hypothesis that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells could improve nerve regeneration outcomes in an experimental model of limb replantation. Methods: Twenty rats underwent replantation after total hindlimb amputation. Animals were subdivided into two groups: a replanted but nontreated control group and a replanted and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell–transplanted group. Three months after surgery, nerve regeneration was assessed using functional, electrophysiologic, histomorphologic, and immunohistochemical analyses. Results: Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell–treated animals showed significantly better sciatic functional index levels and higher compound muscle action potential amplitudes in comparison with the controls. Histomorphometric analysis revealed that the number of regenerating axons was approximately two-fold greater in the treated nerves. In addition, the mean g-ratio of these axons was within the optimal range. Immunohistochemical assessment revealed that expression of S-100 and myelin basic protein in the treated nerves was significantly higher than in controls. Correspondingly, the expression levels of anti–protein gene product 9.5 and vesicular acetylcholine transporter in motor endplates were also significantly higher. Finally, muscles in the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell–transplanted group showed significantly larger average fiber areas. Conclusion: The authors’ findings demonstrate that it is possible to improve the degree of nerve regeneration after limb replantation by bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation.