Scientists Successfully Use Nerve Regrowth Technique to Help Treat Paralysis

Persons who have suffered a spinal cord injury may suffer from varying degrees of paralysis, and one of the effects of such paralysis is lack of bladder control. Recently, scientists confirmed that they have successfully experimented with a nerve regrowth technique in order to help paralyzed rats retain bladder control.

The study was published recently in the Journal of Neuroscience. Scientists have for years now been experimenting with nerve grafts as a way of establishing a re connection of the nerves at the site of the spinal cord injury. However, getting the cells to regrow and form new connections that are capable of sending signals has been an uphill battle.

In this technique, the researchers used a nerve regrowth method in order to promote nerve regeneration. They used a chemical that specifically helps encourage cell growth in collaboration with an enzyme that can help reduce the formation of scars, to help create a more conducive environment for the regeneration of new nerve cells at the site of the spinal cord injury.

The study was conducted on paralyzed rats, and although the paralyzed rats did not retain the ability to move, they did experience a significant measure of urinary and bladder control after the application of this technique.

According to spinal cord injury patients, regaining of bladder control is one of the most difficult tasks following recovery from a spinal cord injury. This is believed to be the very first time that a significant measure of bladder control has been restored following a severe spinal cord injury.

The personal injury lawyers in Houston, TX at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers represent persons who have suffered spinal injury across Texas.