Caffeic acid phenethyl ester exhibits antioxidant properties. This experimental study was designed to determine the effect of CAPE on nitric NO level and XO activity after reperfusion injury of spinal cord. New Zealand white rabbits were undergone aortic occlusion. CAPE, methylprednisolone or saline were injected intraperitoneally before surgical intervention. Animals were subjected to 21 min of crossclamp time. At the end of occlusion time, the clamps were removed and restoration of the blood flow was verified visually. Animals in sham group underwent a surgical procedure similar to the other groups but the aorta was not occluded. Spinal cord specimens were obtained to determine the tissue levels of NO and XO activity.