In order to investigate the effect of nerve compression on neurons, the commonly used model of chronic nerve compression was produced in 48 SD rats. The rats were sacrificed in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 months after compression, respectively. The number of neuron and ultrashruchure of alpha-motor neurons and ganglion cells of the corresponding spinal segment were examined. The results showed as following: After the sciatic nerve were crushed, the number of neuron and ultrastructure of alpha-motor neurons and ganglion cells might undergo ultrastructural changes, and even the death might occur. These changes might be aggravated as the time of crushing was prolonged and the compression force was increased. It was concluded that for nerve compression, decompression should be done as early as possible in order to avoid or minimize the ultructural changes of the neuron.
