This study developed a novel spinal cord fusion (SCF) technique called sural nerve transplantation (SNT) for paraplegic patients with lower thoracic SCI. In a clinical trial with 12 paraplegic patients, SNT improved autonomic functions in seven patients, relieved central cord pain in most, and showed some recovery of motor and sensory functions in five patients. While SNT partially restored spinal cord continuity and improved outcomes, further trials are necessary to refine the technique and minimize complications such as postoperative pain.
Read Full ArticleThis study explores the efficacy of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-mediated spinal cord fusion (SCF) techniques in treating spinal cord injuries (SCI) in a canine model. Researchers compared three SCF models—spinal cord transection (SCT), vascular pedicle hemisected spinal cord transplantation (vSCT), and vascularized allograft spinal cord transplantation (vASCT)—to assess nerve repair and functional recovery. Results showed progressive recovery in all models with similar outcomes in motor function and nerve regeneration, as evidenced by neuroimaging and positive MEP waveforms after six months. The study highlights the potential of PEG-mediated SCF in promoting spinal cord repair and recovery.
Read Full ArticleIn this work, we proposed that vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation(vASCT) might offer a new surgical approach for treating spinal cord injury. Inthe vASCT surgical model, the combination of polyethylene glycol with tacrolimusdemonstrated the ability to reconstruct spinal cord continuity and restore hind limbmotor function in beagles. The safety and efficacy of vASCT were verified by behavioralevaluation, electrophysiological examination and imaging examination.
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