The aim of this study was to examine the in situ regeneration of the
inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in its bony channel, using autologous tissue in combination with a recombinant human
nerve growth factor (rhNGF).
Materials and methods
A total of 20 New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into five groups. Following dissection of the IAN, the animals underwent reconstruction either with muscle tissue (groups 1 and 2) or with fat tissue (groups 3 and 4). In group 5 (control), the dissected nerve was resected and reconstructed by placement of the reversed autologous segment. After 2 and 4 weeks, 1 mL rhNGF was locally injected in groups 1 and 3. Nerve function was monitored by measuring the jaw-opening reflex using electromyography for a period of 24 weeks.
Results
Regeneration of the nerve was achieved in all groups, but preoperative threshold values were not achieved. Comparing the experimental groups to the control, there was a significant difference in favor of the autologous nerve reconstruction. Differences between the experimental groups remained statistically not significant.
Conclusion
Regeneration of the IAN with autologous tissue is possible, but without achieving preoperative thresholds. Additional injection of a growth factor seems to improve the speed of regeneration for fat and muscle grafts.
