Study of the Effects of CNTF on Peripheral Facial Nerve Regeneration after End-to-side Neurorrhaphy.

Objective:To study the effect of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) on peripheral facial nerve regeneration after end-to-side neurorrhaphy.Methods:24 rabbits were randomly divided into three groups.The upper-cheek branch of facial nerve on both sides was transected and then its distal end sutured to the down-cheek branch with epineurial window in an end-to-side fashion.CNTF was given to the right side postoperatively.The left side serve as control without CNTF.Gross appearance observation and the score of facial nerve function, histological, electrophysioligical, and transmission electron microscopic examination were carried out at 3,5 and 12weeks 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 was also superior.Conclusions:CNTF had beneficial influence on promoting peripheral facial nerve collateral sprouting after end-to-side neurorrhaphy and reduce denervation muscle atrophy.