[decimon]

When the spinal column is transected, aka cut, the distal axons degenerate. However the accompanying inflammatory reaction promotes scar tissue formation that the regrowing nerves can't cross. The neurons can't regrow their axons through the fibrotic scar tissue.

Snip off the scarred ends and then apply the chitosan stuff?

[neverdem]

Snip off the scarred ends and then apply the chitosan stuff?

They'll probably try that on rodents with old spinal cord injuries. Only time will tell if it works, but other factors might come into play such that removing the scar won't be enough. It might be good only for acute injuries before the scar is completely formed. The initial spinal cord injury sets off an inflammatory reaction. There may only be a short window to get to a neurosurgeon who knows what they are doing.