Abstract

Aim The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Ga-As (904 nm) laser on the crushed nerve region compared with laser of the corresponding spinal cord segments. Material and Materials and Methods Thirty Albino Wistar male rats weighing 180-240 g were used in this study. The sciatic nerve was crushed at the middle level with an aneurysm clip (Aesculap FE 751; Tuttingen, Germany) for 4 minutes. The rats were allocated into three groups. In group 1, laser irradiation was applied at the four points along the corresponding spinal cord segments (L3-L6) in contact with the shaved skin. In group 2, the crushed area in contact with the shaved skin was irradiated. In group 3, the same procedure was performed without emission. The first laser treatment was performed on the second day of surgery and was repeated once daily for 21 consecutive days. The measured electrophysiological parameters included compound muscle action potential (CMAP), distal motor latency (DML), and motor nerve conduction velocity (NCV). Measurements were taken just before crushing and were repeated on the 21st day of the treatment and the 42nd day of the follow-up period. Sciatic Functional Index (SFI) and Toe Spread Analysis (TSA) were carried out on postoperative days 2, 7, 14, 21 and 42. Results There was no significant difference between groups regarding DML and amplitude of CMAP. The NCV was significantly faster in group 1 on the 21st and 42nd days than in the other groups. The differences between groups regarding SFI and TSA on the 1st, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 42nd days were insignificant (p>0.05). Conclusion In conclusion, the use of Ga-As laser did not provide significant benefit on nerve regeneration or functional improvement except for its positive effect on nerve conduction in the crushed area irradiated group.

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