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Prostheses and methods for promoting nerve regeneration and for inhibiting the formation of neuromas

  • US 4,778,467 A
  • Filed: 07/10/1986
  • Issued: 10/18/1988
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/25/1984
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A nerve prosthesis, comprising:

  • a tube constructed of biocompatible materials having a first end for enclosing a proximal end of a severed nerve and a second end for enclosing a distal end of the severed nerve, said tube serving to support the severed nerve such that the proximal end of the nerve is positioned in proximity to the distal end of the nerve, said tube being substantially impermeable to fluids associated with the severed nerve;

    a coating applied to at least a portion of the interior surface of the tube, said coating comprising a material which substantially adheres to the severed nerve ends within the tube so as to substantially inhibit movement of the severed nerve ends within the tube;

    a longitudinal slit formed along the length of the tube, said slit allowing the tube to be longitudinally opened so as to facilitate insertion of the severed nerve ends into the tube;

    two longitudinal flaps positioned along the respective edges of the longitudinal slit, said flaps providing for a close seal along the slit when the tube is closed; and

    means for securing the tube closely around the proximal end of the nerve, wherein the securing means is provided by constructing the wall of the tube of a material having a thickness which provides both resiliency and renitency such that the tube will return to and maintain a longitudinally closed position after having been opened, thereby providing a close seal along the longitudinal slit when the tube is closed.

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