Bioabsorbable rods and pins for fixation of metacarpophalangeal arthrodesis of the thumb.

We report results on the use of bioabsorbable pins and intramedullary rods made of high-molecular-weight polylactic acid in both experimental and clinical conditions. In the experimental study, bioabsorbable rods were implanted in rabbit femora. Histologic assessment on nondecalcified bone showed that resorption of the material began at 4 months after implantation and gradually fragmented over a period of 3 years.

Interpreting nerve morphometry data after experimental traumatic lesions.

Morphometric data were obtained in 2 experimental conditions: crush lesions of the sciatic nerve of rats, and transection of this nerve followed by repair. Ratios were used in order to facilitate comprehension of data. Results were compared to those obtained using a method of functional assessment.

Large amounts of polylactic acid in contact with divided nerve sheaths have no adverse effects on regeneration.

The stumps of divided rat sciatic nerves were coapted by suturing the epineurium to a small rectangular device made of a sheet of polylactic acid. One month later, significant degradation of the implanted material was observed. At that time, the local condition of the nerve was excellent, and the precise location of the initial injury could not be determined by examination under the operating microscope.