Photobiomodulation (PBMT) and Vascularization in Conduit-Based Peripheral Nerve Repair

Jariwala S, Fellin C, Steiner R, Buchen J, ANders J

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) pose a significant clinical issue for patients, especially in the most severe cases where complete transection (neurotmesis) results in total loss of sensory/motor function. Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are a common treatment option that protects and guides regenerating axons during recovery. However, treatment outcomes remain limited and often fail to achieve full reinnervation, especially in critically sized defects (> 3 cm) where a lack of vascularization leads to neural necrosis. A multi-treatment approach is therefore necessary to improve the efficacy of NGCs. Stimulating angiogenesis within NGCs can help alleviate oxygen deficiency through rapid inosculation with the host vasculature, while photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has demonstrated beneficial therapeutic effects on regenerating nerve cells and neovascularization.

In this review, we discuss the current trends of NGCs, vascularization, and PBMT as treatments for peripheral nerve neurotmesis and highlight the need for a combinatorial approach to improve functional and clinical outcomes

Fellin CR, Steiner RC, Buchen JT, Anders JJ, Jariwala SH. Photobiomodulation and Vascularization in Conduit-Based Peripheral Nerve Repair: A Narrative Review. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg. 2024 Jan;42(1):1-10. doi: 10.1089/photob.2023.0103. Epub 2023 Dec 18. PMID: 38109199.