LONG TERM EFFECTS OF ALLANTOIN ON PERIPHERAL NERVE HEALING: AN ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL STUDY

Background: Peripheral nerve injuries are a common health problem resulting in a decreased quality of life. Treatment of peripheral nerve injuries is complex and depends on location, intensity, and type of nerve injury. Allantoin is an antioxidant found in plants that enhance wound healing. It promotes the proliferation of cells by improving peripheral nerve function. This study aimed to investigate the long term effects of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of allantoin on peripheral nerve healing in an experimental sciatic nerve crush in a rat model. Materials and Methods: Twenty male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups. Control (Cont) Group did not receive any special protocol for 60 days. Crush (Cr) Group was induced to crush. Allantoin (A) Group received 10 mg/kg of allantoin i.p. for 60 days. Crush + Allantoin (Cr+A) Group was induced to crush and given 10 mg/kg of allantoin i.p. for 60 days. After 60 days all rats were sacrificed following electromyography (EMG). Results: Allantoin was revealed to enhance the peripheral nerve function in terms of amplitude and latency. Conclusion: The i.p. administration of allantoin may have a positive effect on peripheral nerve healing.