Abstract: Polymeric fibers were microbraided around a mandrel to make a tubular guide tube for nerve regeneration. The polymer used for the fibers was one of poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (10:90 PLGA) and chitosan. These polymers are biodegradable and biocompatible. The tubes were studied for their surface morphology and swelling behavior. Biological performance of the tubes was examined in the rat sciatic nerve model with a 12 mm gap. One month after implantation nine out of ten rats showed successful nerve regeneration. Morphometric analysis of regenerated nerves confirmed the quality of the regeneration compatible with those offered by other types of biodegradable nerve guide tubes. The tubes were flexible, permeable and showed no swelling.

Abstract: Polymeric fibers were microbraided around a mandrel to make a tubular guide tube for nerve regeneration. The polymer used for the fibers was one of poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (10:90 PLGA) and chitosan. These polymers are biodegradable and biocompatible. The tubes were studied for their surface morphology and swelling behavior. Biological performance of the tubes was examined in the rat sciatic nerve model with a 12 mm gap. One month after implantation nine out of ten rats showed successful nerve regeneration. Morphometric analysis of regenerated nerves confirmed the quality of the regeneration compatible with those offered by other types of biodegradable nerve guide tubes. The tubes were flexible, permeable and showed no swelling.