Axoguard Nerve
Protector^®

Axoguard Nerve Protector is a porcine small intestine
submucosa (SIS) implant designed to protect injured or
compressed nerves.

Protect what matters

Axoguard Nerve Protector is designed to be an interface between the nerve and surrounding tissue, minimizing the potential for soft tissue attachments.¹
Porcine SIS-based extracellular matrix allows for vascularization and remodeling into host tissue.¹
Pre-curled design allows for easy handling and circumferential wrapping.
Hydrates quickly; can be secured using sutures and trimmed to adjust device length.

Ordering and sizing

Code	Dimensions
AG0220	2 mm x 20 mm
AG0320	3.5 mm x 20 mm
AG0520	5 mm x 20 mm
AG0720	7 mm x 20 mm
AG1020	10 mm x 20 mm

Code	Dimensions
AG0340	3.5 mm x 40 mm
AG0540	5 mm x 40 mm
AG0740	7 mm x 40 mm
AG1040	10 mm x 40 mm

See how Axoguard Nerve Protector is used to wrap nerves after compression or traumatic injuries.

Video thumbnail for Axoguard Nerve Protector Animation

The importance of biomaterials

In pre-clinical studies conducted to evaluate host tissue response, the following were observed compared to a cross-linked collagen product:

SIS membranes supported higher vascular component densities.²
SIS membranes combined strength, pliability and semi-translucency with greater native cellular ingrowth and vascularization.³
SIS membranes supported a more favorable tissue environment for nerve regeneration.²

Figure 1

Histology image shows blood vessel ingrowth in collagen and different cell types within collagen in a pre-clinical study

Figure 1: Histology showing blood vessel ingrowth (shown by black arrows) in collagen and SIS 28 days after surgery in a rat nerve injury model. Blood vessel ingrowth observed in the SIS was deep and dense, as compared to the collagen device. Magnification 200x. Axogen Data on File.

Figure 2

Figure 2: Histology showing different cell types within collagen and SIS 28 days after surgery in a rat nerve injury model. Cells indicative of tissue remodeling (shown in red) were observed to be evenly spread and more common in the SIS device as compared to the CLC device. Fibroblasts (orange arrows) were observed throughout the SIS device, as compared to only near the surface of the CLC device. Schwann cells (shown in green) were abundant in the nerve repaired with SIS. Magnification 400x. Axogen Data on File.

See 2021 study See 2023 study

Watch more videos

The Importance of Nerve Protection with Dr. Michael Garcia*

Three Types of Candidates for Nerve Protection with Dr. Sunishka Wimalawansa*

Addressing the Challenge of Treating Non-Transected Nerves with Dr. Meredith Osterman*

*The opinions expressed are those of the surgeon based on their clinical experience. Surgeons are paid consultants for Axogen. Individual results may vary.

Axoguard Nerve Protector Instructions for Use

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See all Axogen products

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Preclinical animal model results may not be predictive of clinical outcomes.

References:

Kokkalis ZT, et al. Assessment of processed porcine extracellular matrix as a protective barrier in a rabbit nerve wrap model. J Reconstr Microsurg. Jan 2011;27(1):19-28.
Zhukauskas R, et al. Histological comparison of porcine small intestine submucosa and bovine type-I collagen conduit for nerve repair in a rat model. J Hand Surg Glob Online. 2023;5(6):810-817. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsg.2023.07.014.
Zhukauskas R, et al. A comparative study of porcine small intestine submucosa and cross-linked bovine type I collagen as a nerve conduit. J Hand Surg Glob Online. 2021;3(5):282-288. doi:10.1016/j.jhsg.2021.06.006

MAT-US-AXNP-0002 V1.0

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Indications for Use

Axoguard Nerve Protector is indicated for the repair of peripheral nerve injuries where there is no gap. Supplied sterile; single use only.

Contraindications

Do not use in patients with known sensitivity to porcine material.

Not intended for vascular applications.

Potential Complications

Complications associated with nerve repair surgery may include pain, infection, decreased or increased nerve sensitivity, and complications associated with anesthesia.

If inflammation, allergic reaction, or infection occurs and cannot be resolved, careful removal of the device should be considered.

Rx Only

Caution: Federal (U.S.A.) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

For complete product information, including indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse events, please refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU).

Axoguard Nerve Protector®