Effect of a modified Nd:YAG laser technique on neuroma formation: An experimental study in rat sciatic nerve.

Background And Objectives: Traumatic transection of a peripheral nerve is inherently associated with the development of neuroma at the end of the proximal stump, often leading to therapy-resistant pain. This study was designed to evaluate whether the neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser could prevent neuroma formation after neurectomy.

Study Design/materials And Methods: The sciatic nerves of 14 rats were diffuse coagulated by defocused Nd:YAG laser (12 W power), and subsequently transected with additional focused laser energy.