THE PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN RATS'S NERVES SUBJECT TO MODERATE COMPRESSION

Abstract

1. A method of constricting sciatic nerves of rats was devised which produced lesions resembling macroscopically and electromyographically those of carpal tunnel and related syndromes.

2. The nerves became swollen and hyperaemic proximal and distal to the constriction. The swellings were largely caused by an accumulation of fluid between the axons, but the axons themselves were also increased in size.

3. This accumulation of fluid was an oedema secondary to a partial obstruction of the vasa nervorum.