Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of International Advanced Otology, cilt.8, sa.1, ss.30-37, 2012 (SCI-Expanded)
Objective: Neuronal survival is an important factor in the achievement of functional restitution after peripheral nerve injuries. An experimental rabbit model was used to evaluate the effect of nifedipine on the outgrowth of regenerating axons of a transected peripheral facial nerve. Materials and Methods: A complete transection injury was performed in 20 facial nerves of 16 rabbits. There were eight nerves in the first group; after the injuries, the anastomosis site was wrapped with a piece of gel foam soaked in phosphate buffered saline. In the second group there were 12 facial nerves; after the injuries, the anastomosis site was wrapped with a piece of gel foam soaked in nifedipine diluted. Functional studies were performed on 5 th, 15 th, 42 nd days after the surgery. Electrophysiological studies were performed just before and 42 days after the surgery. At last, 42 days after the initial surgery, facial nerves were removed for the histological examination. Results: After six weeks, the reduction in a mean compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and functional index, and the increase in latency index were determined by the use of nifedipine in the second group. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant. (p<0.05) On histological examination it was seen that nifedipine improved facial nerve regeneration by increasing the number of axons and myelin sheaths. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that nifedipine may be an effective peripheral nerve protective agent when used locally at the surgical site after complete transection of the facial nerve. © 2005 The Mediterranean Society of Otology and Audiology.