Reconstruction of digital nerves with collagen conduits.

Purpose: Digital nerve reconstruction with a biodegradable conduit offers the advantage of providing nerve reconstruction while providing a desirable environment for nerve regeneration. Many conduit materials have been investigated, but there have been few reports of human clinical trials of purified type I bovine collagen conduits.

Methods: We report a prospective study of 22 isolated digital nerve lacerations in 19 patients reconstructed with a bioabsorbable collagen conduit.

Acellular dermal regeneration template for soft tissue reconstruction of the digits.

Purpose: Trauma to the digits often leaves soft tissue defects with exposed bone, joint, and/or tendon that require soft tissue replacement. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of acellular dermal regeneration template combined with full-thickness skin grafting for soft tissue reconstruction in digital injuries with soft tissue defects.

Methods: Acellular dermal regeneration template was used to reconstruct digital injuries with exposed bone, joint, tendon, and/or hardware not amenable to treatment with healing by secondary intention, rotation flaps, or primary skin grafts.

Nerve conduits.

The evolution of peripheral nerve repair is reviewed with respect to the development of the nerve conduit. The rationale and available scientific evidence to support the use of nerve conduits is presented. Therapy evaluation and treatment protocols for patients with peripheral nerve repairs with nerve conduits are detailed.