Journal of North Khorasan

Abstract Background and Objectives: Collagen gel can specifically play role in the nerve regeneration. The aim of this research was to study the effect of collagen gel-coated within collagen tube on sciatic nerve regeneration. Material & Methods: This research is an experimental study that 48 male rats (200-250 gr) were used. After axotomy, 1cm segment of the sciatic nerve was removed and the animals were divided into four groups (collagen tube, collagen tube + collagen gel-coated, autograft, and sham surgery). All animals were evaluated by sciatic functional index (SFI), electrophysiology and histology. Results: At 49th and 60th days post operation, the mean of SFI in Collagen + Collagen gel-coated were superior to other experimental groups (collagen and autograft) (P< 0.05). At 12 weeks post operation, the mean nerve conduction velocity and the mean number of myelinated axons in collagen + collagen gel-coated group were superior to other experimental groups (collagen and autograft) (P< 0.05). Conclusion: In this study positive effect of collagen gel on nerve regeneration through a collagen tube shows that it may be useful in treating peripheral nerve injuries.