Advancements and future directions in nerve and salivary gland treatments: a comprehensive review

Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Dankook University School of Medicine, Cheonan, Republic of Korea Nerve injuries and salivary gland dysfunction significantly impact patients' quality of life. This review examines current treatments for nerve regeneration and salivary gland restoration, focusing on advances in regenerative medicine, surgery, pharmacology, and biomaterials. The integration of stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and tissue engineering has provided new treatment possibilities, while biomaterials and nanotechnology improve therapeutic results. However, challenges remain regarding efficacy, scalability, and long-term effectiveness. Future approaches emphasize personalized medicine, artificial intelligence, and advanced nanotechnology as potential game-changers. Clinical case studies illustrate the practical applications and outcomes of current therapies, highlighting the need for further research and interdisciplinary collaboration. This review seeks to inform clinicians and researchers and inspire innovations to improve patient care.