Cell therapy in tendon disorders: what is the current evidence?

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Tissue-derived cells are explored for tendinopathy treatment, tendon repair, and tissue engineering.
• Investigating various cell sources including tendon progenitors, adipose, synovium, muscle, bone marrow, and skin.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and evaluate the evidence for cell therapy in tendinopathy.
• Assessing the potential of cell therapy as a therapeutic intervention for tendon-related conditions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review using PubMed.
• Included keywords: tendinopathy, tendinitis, tendinosis, epicondylitis, stem cell, cell therapy.
• Excluded non-English articles; appraised human and animal research.

Main Results:

• 379 articles identified; relevant studies critically appraised.
• Examined utility of various tissue-derived cells in tendon repair and tissue engineering.
• Assessed cell therapy for rotator cuff repair and general tendinopathy.

Conclusions:

• Cell therapy appears applicable and potentially effective for tendinopathy treatment.
• Evidence suggests utility in tissue engineering and rotator cuff repair.
• Further research is required on biological mechanisms, long-term effects, and cost-effectiveness.