OBJECTIVETo observe the effect of using polytetraflouroethylene (e-PTFE) tube with self-Schwann cells implanted to repair facial nerve defect.

METHODSEnzymatic digest method was used to get pure Schwann cells in short time. The e-PTFE membrane tube was used to bridge the 1.0 cm defect of facial nerve and pure self-Schwann cells were injected into the tube. As control group, the e-PTFE tube without self-Schwann cells was used in the same way. Electric physiological and histological examinations were taken in different times.

RESULTSThe effect of nerve regeneration of the experimental group was better than control group at any time. The nerve conduction velocity of the experimental group was 29.70 m/s in the 16th week, while the control groups was 23.00 m/s respectively at the same time.

CONCLUSIONIt is possible to obtain sufficient active Schwann cells by enzymatic digest method. Using e-PTFE tube to bridge the defect of facial nerve with self-Schwann cells implanted can get effect of nerve regeneration.