The effect of FK506 (tacrolimus) loaded with collagen membrane and fibrin glue on promotion of nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve traction injury model

Background Peripheral nerve injury is one of the most common injuries that might occur in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of FK506 loaded with collagen membrane and fibrin glue on the promotion of nerve regeneration after traction nerve injury in a rat model. Methods Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: group A ( n = 10), a sham group whose sciatic nerve was exposed without any injury; and groups B ( n = 10) and C ( n = 10), which underwent traction nerve injury using 200 g of traction force for 1 min. The injured nerve in group C was covered with a collagen membrane soaked with FK506 (0.5 mg/0.1 mL) and fibrin glue. Functional analysis and microscopic evaluation were performed at 2 and 4 weeks after injury. Results The sciatic function index was − 5.78 ± 3.07 for group A, − 20.69 ± 5.22 for group B, and − 12.01 ± 4.20 for group C at 2 weeks after injury. However, at 4 weeks, the sciatic function index was − 5.58 ± 2.45 for group A, − 19.69 ± 4.81 for group B, and − 11.95 ± 1.94 for group C. In both periods, statistically significant differences were found among the groups ( p <0.017). Histomorphometric evaluation revealed improved nerve regeneration in group C compared to that in group B. However, no statistical differences in axonal density were found among the three groups ( p < 0.017). Conclusion Localized FK506 with collagen membrane and fibrin glue could promote axonal regeneration in a rat model of traction nerve injury.