This content is for medical workers.
FAQ
Product
- How should I choose the size of NerbridgeⓇ?
We recommend users choose a NerbridgeⓇ conduit with an inner diameter that is 0.5mm to 1.0mm greater than the diameter of the autologous nerve being repaired.
- What are the precautions for storing NerbridgeⓇ?
Please keep the product within a temperature range of 1 to 30 degrees Celsius (33.8 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) as stated in the Directions for Use. Avoid storing the product where the temperature could exceed this range due to direct sunlight.
- Can it be used for pediatric patients, pregnant and nursing mothers?
For pregnant or possibly pregnant women, lactating women and pediatric patients, NerbridgeⓇ should only be used when clinical benefits are judged to outweigh the possible risks. The clinical trial conducted for Japanese regulatory approval included patients aged 15 years or older and younger than 65 years. There were no pregnant patients at the time of the clinical trial.
- Can I reuse it?
No, NerbridgeⓇ must not be reused. Resterilization of unused product is also prohibited.
- What type of collagen is used to manufacture NerbridgeⓇ?
Nerbridge’s collagen is derived from porcine dermis. It is manufactured through a validated process which includes virus inactivation and removal during the manufacturing process.
- How long will it take for a NerbridgeⓇ conduit to be absorbed by the body?
The absorption time varies depending upon the patient. In general, Nerbridge’s polyglycolic acid (PGA) and collagen are dissolved, absorbed and metabolized by the patient's body over a period of 2 to 4 months.
Clinical
- In what clinical departments is NerbridgeⓇ usually used?
NerbridgeⓇ can be used by a variety of clinical departments, such as orthopedics, plastic surgery, otorhinolaryngology, head and neck surgery, dental and oral surgery, urology, etc.
- What are the most common defect lengths for which NerbridgeⓇ is used?
NerbridgeⓇ is most often used for defect lengths of 10 to 20mm and shows good recovery rates for these lengths.
- Do I have to use the horizontal mattress suturing method recommended by the manufacturer, TOYOBO?
Although the manufacturer recommends use of the horizontal mattress suturing method, other suturing methods may be selected as long as the method is consistent with important aspects of the product use. For a better understanding of these important aspects, please refer to our Directions for Use and the animated suturing method video which is available on TOYOBO's website.
- How do you use NerbridgeⓇ for thicker nerves such as the median nerve?
NerbridgeⓇ should not be used for nerves with diameters larger than those of the product’s inner diameter.
- Are there any postoperative precautions for the patient?
When NerbridgeⓇ is used in the vicinity of the joints, external fixation is recommended for at least a week in order to avoid disconnection between the nerve stump and the product. Furthermore, in case of additional treatments, such as radiological irradiation, it is recommended to apply them with more cautious judgement as it could impair normal cellular tissues.
- Is use of any particular suture types required with NerbridgeⓇ?
Be sure to use non-absorbable sutures to prevent the product from falling out. Please also refer to our Directions for Use for further details.