Basic fibroblast growth factor combined with biodegradable hydrogel promotes healing of facial nerve after compression injury: An experimental study

Conclusion. Topical application of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) hydrogel facilitates faster healing from traumatic facial paralysis due to continuous release of bFGF. Objectives. bFGF is considered a potent agent to facilitate recovery from neuronal damage, however, exogenously applied bFGF does not work well because of its short acting time. To enhance the effects in vivo, we developed a new drug delivery system by embedding bFGF in a gelatin hydrogel that degrades slowly. In this study, the effects of bFGF-hydrogel on traumatic facial nerve paralysis were investigated in guinea pigs. Methods. The intratemporal facial nerve was exposed and clamped at the vertical portion using micro needle forceps. The animals were then subjected to one of the following three procedures: group A, no further treatment; group B, one-shot application of bFGF to the nerve; and group C, application of bFGF-hydrogel instead. Six weeks later, facial nerve functions were evaluated by three test batteries: observation of facial movements, electrophysiological testing, and histological study. Results. The results for groups A and B were similar in the three tests, indicating that one-shot application of bFGF did not benefit facial nerve recovery. In contrast, group C achieved better results in all tests.