The Effects of Hemostatic Agents on Peripheral Nerve Function: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Purpose: In the practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery, hemostatic agents are sometimes placed in close proximity to peripheral nerves. In the present study, we evaluated immediate and delayed effects of 4 hemostatic agents (oxidized regenerated cellulose, 5% colloid silver-added gelatine sponge, bovine collagen, bone wax) on peripheral nerve function. Materials and Methods: A total of 25 rat sciatic nerves were prepared, and the amplitudes were recorded with a physiological data acquisition system. Animals were randomly assigned to 5 groups: control, oxidized regenerated cellulose, gelatine sponge, bone wax, and bovine collagen. The first hour records are defined as immediate effects of these hemostatic agents on nerve function. The animals were then allowed to recover for 4 weeks. At the end of this period, the same surgical and recording procedures were performed. These final records are defined as delayed effects of hemostatic agents on nerve function. According to nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and compound action potential (CAP) values of the experimental groups, early and delayed effects of each hemostatic agent were statistically compared with Bonferroni corrected test (P < .05). Results: Statistically, NCV was significantly reduced, and the CAP was significantly increased 1 hour after surgery (P < .05) in the group of oxidized regenerated cellulose. However, there were no significant differences after 4 weeks compared with the first records. In the gelatine sponge group, CAP was significantly increased 4 weeks after the application. In the bovine collagen and bone wax groups, NCV and CAP values (1 hour and 4 weeks after the application) were not statistically significant compared with initial control records. Conclusion: The present study shows that bovine collagen is the most suitable hemostatic agent applicable for peripheral nerves. © 2007 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.