L Stensaas | PubMed Health

PubMed1991

Chronically implanted intrafascicular recording electrodes.

A newly designed intrafascicular electrode for chronic neural recording was studied by implanting 12 electrodes in the radial nerves of 6 cats for 6 months. Action potentials were monitored at specified intervals throughout the experiment. The number and size of the signals recorded suggest that this type of electrode provides information that is appropriate for feedback control in functional electrical stimulation (FES) systems. Histology of the nerve revealed that the implants are biocompatible and that little damage is caused by the presence of the electrode.

Action Potentials↗

PubMed1989

Snug tubular enclosures reduce extrafascicular axonal escape at peripheral nerve repair sites.

A method of fascicular nerve repair utilizing silicone rubber tubes has been developed and tested in the dog whose nerves, like those of man, have a thick epineurial sheath. The closely fitting tubes provide a noncompressive enclosure which minimizes axonal escape and facilitates axon regeneration in at least two ways: First, they provide an impermeable conduit for endoneurial fluid whose constituents create an environment favoring the regeneration of axons and Schwann cells. Second, the biocompatible tube induces rapid development of a highly organized capsule which isolates the repair site, prevents adhesions, and strengthens the discontinuity. Enclosure of coapted fascicles also improves alignment of endoneurial components while providing space for the resolution of edema. The inert, noncompressive enclosures appear to minimize unregulated axonal growth at the site of injury by providing a qualitatively distinct environment from that in loose or open tubes.

Animals↗