Peripheral nerve alterations after spinal cord injury in the adult rat

Objective: To assess if spinal cord injury (SCI) can produce alterations in axons of peripheral nerves emerging caudal to the injury. Methods: Mild/severe contusion or complete transection was performed at T8 in adult rats. The function and morphology of the sciatic nerve were assessed 3 months after the lesion. Results: There was a decrease in the amplitudes of muscle responses in nerve conduction tests. The number of myelinated fibers was maintained, but some of them presented structural abnormalities. Conclusion: SCIs cause alterations in peripheral axons not affected by the injury. Preservation of the peripheral components is essential for potential regenerative and rehabilitation therapies. Thus, special care has to be taken to avoid secondary complications, due to compressions or immobility, in SCI humans.