摘要 |
<p>The present invention provides a peripheral nerve growth scaffold including poly epsilon-caprolactone (PCL) and microgrooves on an inner surface of the scaffold, the scaffold being adapted for use in treatment of damaged peripheral nerves. The microgrooves are suitably arranged as a pattern or array and preferably comprise sloping side walls, which arrangement has been found to provide a favourably environment for nerve and Schwann cell growth and proliferation. Experimental results demonstrate directed and aligned growth, which suitably reduces the rate of formation of neuromas. Embodiments comprising a PCL-PLA blend of the sloping side wall and a groove width greater than the spacing between adjacent grooves has been found to be particularly effective for directed cell growth and proliferation.</p> |