Function and Structure of Peripheral Nerves Following Cutaneous Burns

摘要

An injury model which permits examination of the direct effect of transient modest elevations of tissue temperature in the region of the nerve has been developed using radiofrequency current, the effects of which are due to the heat generated. Methodology has been developed for serial clinical and electrophysiological assessment of conduction abnormalities in the posterior tibial and sural branches following this injury. In vitro electrophysiological study of nerves harvested from these animals has disclosed appreciable abnormality in the A alpha-beta component of the compound action potential. These electrophysiological abnormalities are being correlated with morphological and biochemical changes in the nerve. In addition, some of the effects of in vivo segmental heat on conduction in peripheral nerves have been evaluated.