Study of the effects of electrical nerve stimulation on peripheral facial nerve regeneration after end-to-side neurorrhaphy

Objective To study the effect of electrical nerve stimulation(ENS) on peripheral facial nerve regeneration after end to side neurorrhaphy. Methods 24 rabbits were randomly divided into three groups. The cheek branch of facial nerve on both sides was transected and then its distal end sutured to the cervical nerve branch with epineurial window in an end to side fashion. ENS was given to the right side postoperatively for 5 weeks. The left side serve as control without electrical stimulation. Gross appearance observation and the score of facial nerve function, histological, electrophysioligical, and transmission electron microscopic examination were carried out at 3,5 and 15weeks postoperatively. Results Compared with the control side, the expermental side had more regenerating myelinated nerve fibers, faster motor nerve conduction velocity, higher score of facial nerve function. The maturity of myelin sheath of the cheek branch was also superior. Conclusion ENS had beneficial influence on promoting peripheral facial nerve collateral sprouting after end to side neurorrhaphy and reduce denervation muscle atrophy.