Purpose: Evaluating the usefulness of the PGA-collagen ( nerve regeneration ) tube for nerve reconstruction in the head and neck region
Peripheral nerves in the head and neck are often excisionally removed with tumors. We used the PGA-collagen tube to reconstruct the peripheral nerves of the head and neck.
Methods: We performed nerve regeneration surgery using the PGA-collagen tube for the nerve resection of the head and neck (recurrent laryngeal nerve: 4 cases, accessory nerve: 1 case).
We reported the difficulty of nerve reconstruction with the PGA-collagen tube in the head and neck region. We also evaluated the postoperative function and complications.
Results: Nerve regeneration was induced in 3 cases of recurrent laryngeal nerve. In the case of recurrent nerve reconstruction by the PGA-collagen tube near the larynx, tension in the vocal folds was obtained. On the other hand, tension of vocal cord muscle was not obtained when nerve reconstruction was performed at a site far from the larynx. In the case of accessory nerve reconstruction, although not complete, the recovery of shoulder elevation disorder was confirmed.
Conclusions: It may be useful to regenerate the peripheral nerves of the head and neck region by PGA collagen tubes.