Augmenting peripheral nerve regeneration using stem cells: A review of current opinion

Figure 2 Methods of stem cell delivery. A: Direct injection into nerve ends or bridging nerve graft; B: Injection of cells suspended in matrix around nerve rather into the substance of the nerve; C: Nerve gap model using a conduit as the bridging method. Conduit lumen can be injected and filled with cells suspended in scaffold; D: Nerve gap model using conduit as bridging method. Conduit has been cultured and seeded with stem cells. Lumen of conduit may also be filled with cells. Hollow conduits may have internal framework added. This framework may also be seeded with cells; E: Systemic injection of cells. Stem cells have been shown to home to the site of injury; F: Cells may also be injected into neuromuscular junctions of peripheral muscles.