Advances in sutureless nerve repair: when special bioadhesives and electrical stimulation can be used in tandem

Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) presents a major neurological challenge, with symptoms varying depending on the extent of axonal damage. Although we have some understanding of pathophysiology and regeneration mechanisms of PNI, achieving complete and accurate functional restoration remains elusive. Current regenerative treatments are often slow, and full recovery is still largely aspirational despite various therapeutic approaches. This review evaluates the advantages and limitations of new bioadhesives and electrical stimulation (ES) therapies, whether used alone or in combination, for promoting healing of PNI. Despite significant progress in nerve repair and regeneration in vitro, clinical validation of these methods is limited, and further research is needed. The strong preclinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of ES and bioadhesives in treating PNI now calls for advancement beyond experimental models to clinical testing.