A basic fibroblast growth factor slow-release system combined to a biodegradable nerve conduit improves endothelial cell and Schwann cell proliferation: A preliminary study in a rat model.

Background: A basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) slow-release system was combined to a biodegradable nerve conduit with the hypothesis this slow-release system would increase the capacity to promote nerve vascularization and Schwann cell proliferation in a rat model.

Materials And Methods: Slow-release of bFGF was determined using Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). A total of 60 rats were used to create a 10 mm gap in the sciatic nerve.