The effect of delayed electrotherapy on the morphometric parameters of peripheral nerve regeneration

Cutting and epineural microsurgical suturing of the right sciatic nerve were made in 11 dogs with the purpose of revealing the effects of delayed electrostimulation on peripheral nerve regeneration. The electrostimulation course of 18 sessions in the period of 1-2,5 months after surgery (experiment) was used in 5 dogs, the rest served as control. The periods of removal from the experiment - 2,5 and 12 months after surgery. While performing morphometry of half-thin sections distal to suture level the volumetric density of neural elements was determined and also the numerical density of medullary nerve fibers; their diameters were measured as well as the thickness of axons and myelin layer, myelinization index (number G); the character of medullary nerve fiber distribution along the diameter was studied and also the dependence of G upon fiber caliber. Nerves of 3 intact dogs were subjected to morphometry for double control of results. The authors came to the conclusion of the stimulating prolonged effect of delayed electrotherapy on regeneration axonogenesis