Bone and Nerve Response to Sciatic Compression Neuropathy in a Rabbit Model.

Abstract

Compression neuropathy is a prevalent medical condition, including common types such as carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, sciatica, and many others. While the neurological consequences are well understood, the effects on bone properties and the potential downstream impact on fracture risk remain less clear. This study aimed to assess the influence of compressive neuropathy on bone properties using a rabbit model of sciatic nerve compression. We hypothesized that compressive neuropathy could adversely alter bone properties. Five New Zealand white rabbits underwent surgery to induce perineural scarring in the sciatic nerve, with the contralateral limb serving as a sham control. Bone mineral density (BMD), mechanical strength, and bone signaling proteins were evaluated through microcomputed tomography (μCT), four-point bending tests, and ELISA assays, respectively. Sciatic nerve histology was analyzed using VEGF and Nissl staining to assess axon and Schwann cell densities and quantified using image analysis software. The results showed no significant differences in BMD, biomechanical properties, or key bone signaling proteins (OPG and RANKL) between the affected and control tibias. These findings suggest that compression neuropathy does not significantly impact bone properties in the rabbit model.