Poly(ester urethane) guides for peripheral nerve regeneration

A biocompatible and elastomeric PU was synthesized from low-molecular-weight PCL as macrodiol, CMD as chain extender and HDI as chain linker for applications in the field of peripheral nerve repair. PU cast films supported in vitro attachment and proliferation of NOBEC. The in vitro adhesion and proliferation of S5Y5 neuroblastoma cells on the inner surface of uncoated, gelatin- and PL-coated PU guides were compared. Due to their superior in vitro performance, PL-coated PU guides were tested in vivo for the repair of 1.8 cm-long defects in rat sciatic nerves. The progressive regeneration was confirmed by EMG and histological analysis showing the presence of regenerating fibers in the distal stumps. Artificial nerve guides are a promising alternative to autografting for peripheral nerve repair. A newly synthesized biocompatible elastomeric poly(ester urethane) containing poly(?-caprolactone) segments was proposed for the realization of nerve guides. PU physicochemical and biological properties were analyzed. Successful nerve regeneration was demonstrated in a rat sciatic nerve model.