ABSTRACT
Objective To test the feasibility of rescuing 2 impaired nerves by C7 nerve transfer (C7 nerve double-neurotization). Methods Using adult male Sprague-Dawley rats(200 - 250 g),a C7 nerve double-neurotization model was established. At postoperative 2, 4, 6, 8, 12th weeks the recovery underwent muscle-nerve morpholosical, histological examinations and was compared with C7 single neurotization, Results Most of the parameters in double neurotization group approximated to those in the single neurotization groups and normal control group at the end of observation period, thus indicating C7 nerve contains enough nerve fibers to provide sufficient regeneration for 2 recipient nerves. Conclusion Compared to single neurotization, C7 nerve double-neurotization has the advantage of restoring 2 nerve function at same time. This implicates its future clinical application in the treatment of severe brachial plexus avulsion injuries.
