The aim of this study was to compare between the polyglycolic acid (PGA) conduit seeded adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and empty PGA mesh on the regeneration of facial nerve defect in rabbit model. Sixteen healthy adult rabbits were randomly divided into two equal groups (n=8). In the group A, a 5 mm of left buccal branch facial nerve was transected and
coaptated using PGA conduit only while in group B, the same nerve defect was established and coaptated by PGA mesh seeded ADSCs. Clinical signs and histomorphometric evaluation were done. The clinical evaluation of movement of upper lip and attached vibrissae in group B, showed significant difference (P≤0.05) compared with group A,. Histological examination
in group B, the regenerated nerve fibers were well organized with good nerve architecture, abundant nerve fascicles and dense myelinated axons. Morphometrical results of the regenerated nerves fibers showed significant increase in the number of regenerated nerve fibers, myelin thickness and diameter of regenerated nerve fibers in group B than in group A, So, we can conclude that PGA mesh seeded with ADSCs provides better and significant improvement in facial nerve regeneration in rabbit's models than empty PGA mesh conduit