Bridging Nerve Injuries in Craniofacial Medicine; The Emerging Role of Exosomes and Advanced Regeneration Approaches

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 MSc degree student of oral Biology Department, Faculty of dentistry, Cairo University. Teaching assistant of Oral Biology Department, College of Oral and Dental Surgery, Must University, Giza, Egypt.

2 Associate professor of Oral Biology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University

3 Professor of Oral Biology ,College of Oral and Dental Surgery, MUST. Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University.

4 professor of oral biology- faculty of dentistry- Cairo university

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Peripheral nerve injuries in the craniofacial area are a serious, common issue, often

caused by trauma, dental procedures, or maxillofacial surgeries. In dentistry, peripheral nerve

injuries to the lingual nerve and inferior alveolar nerve are frequently seen after dental procedures,

causing considerable sensory disturbances. These injuries can become chronic and severely

influence the quality of life of a patient, making their treatment a critical area of clinical and

research focus.

Aim: This research aims to explores the incidence, classification, and complex pathophysiology

of PNIs, highlighting key regenerative mechanisms of peripheral nerve regeneration, review

literature about the recent treatment modalities of peripheral nerve injuries in the craniofacial

region including conventional treatment options include surgical methods such as neurorrhaphy,

autografts, and nerve guidance conduits, as well as non-surgical interventions like pharmacologic

agents, physical therapies, bioactive materials, and the more recent regenerative medicine

involving cell-free therapies, especially those using exosomes.

Conclusion: The outcomes of the preclinical and clinical research have been promising,

demonstrating improved axonal regeneration, myelination, and better functional outcomes after

exosomes therapy. Because there are currently few human trials available, the development of

exosome-based medicines into common clinical use is still in its infancy. A better comprehension

of the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind effective axon regeneration and precise target

reinnervation would greatly benefit new therapeutic applications. It's crucial to address the

challenges of slow regeneration and axonal mismatch that often follow peripheral nerve injuries.

Consequently, there's a significant need for new combination therapies and intervention strategies

for peripheral nerve regeneration to enhance clinical and functional outcomes.

Keywords