Journal of neurosurgery
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Journal of neurosurgery · Sep 2003
Tethering of the spinal cord in mouse fetuses and neonates with spina bifida.
Tethering of the spinal cord is a well-known complication in humans with spina bifida aperta or occulta. Its pathogenesis consists of a pathological fixation of the spinal cord resulting in traction on the neural tissue which, in turn, leads to ischemia and progressive neurological deterioration. Although well established in humans, this phenomenon has not been described in animal models of spina bifida. ⋯ This mouse model provides an opportunity to study the onset and early sequelae of spinal cord tethering in spina bifida.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Sep 2003
Growth factor enhancement of peripheral nerve regeneration through a novel synthetic hydrogel tube.
The authors' long-term goal is repair of peripheral nerve injuries by using synthetic nerve guidance devices that improve both regeneration and functional outcome relative to an autograft. They report the in vitro processing and in vivo application of synthetic hydrogel tubes that are filled with collagen gel impregnated with growth factors. ⋯ The PHEMA-MMA tubes augmented with FGF-1 in their lumens appear to be a promising alternative to autografts for repair of nerve injuries. Studies are in progress to assess the long-term biocompatibility of these implants and to enhance regeneration further.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Sep 2003
Editorial CommentDisc interspace distraction: is it really necessary?