Multicomponent Conduits for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

Worldwide the clinical market is demanding new artificial nerve conduits able to overcome the limitations related to the currently available devices and therapies. Researchers are investigating and developing alternative approaches, ranging from the production of biological to synthetic tubes, based on non degradable or biodegradable materials, in order to produce an ideal device able to functionally promote the regeneration of the peripheral nerve. Recent discoveries in materials science and process nanotechnologies are introducing new interesting solutions. Here, we propose an overview of the latest studies on the various types of conduit materials, from natural to composites, and on process nanotechnologies (ie, electrospinning) in order to underline the main improvements in functional outcomes, mandatory to optimize current commercial products for clinical practice.