Experimental comparison of vascularized and nonvascularized nerve grafting

Previous studies have established the superiority of a vascularized nerve graft (VNG) over a nonvascularized nerve graft in a scarred recipient bed. This study compared the functional results of VNGs with nonvascularized nerve grafts (conventional nerve graft [CNG]) in a normal recipient bed. Forty rabbits were divided into two groups of 20 each. In one group a median nerve VNG was created in one forelimb. In the other group a CNG was created. Postoperative evaluation was performed at 10 and 24 weeks. Nerve conduction velocity, compound action potential area, axon diameter, and muscle weight did not demonstrate statistically significant differences. Axon counts and muscle strength did show a superior value for VNGs at 24 weeks.