A mature and fast-forming fibrous capsule using tetracycline: A preliminary report

The most frequently used method in two-stage reconstruction of a tendon is the placement of a silicone rod, forming a canal where the tendon can glide easily, that is subsequently replaced with a tendon graft. However, there is a disadvantage in that the formation of a qualified gliding canal requires at least three months after the placement of the silicone rod. In the present report, the authors evaluated the effects of tetracycline on the time period required for the formation of a qualified gliding canal in rats after the placement of a silicone rod. Tetracycline was administered through an 18 gauge needle inserted into the silicone rod in the test side (right) and saline solution was administered in the same fashion to the control side (left) in each rat. Histopathological and macroscopic examinations at weeks 1, 2, 3, 4 and 8 after the operation showed that a significantly thicker and more mature sheath was formed after two weeks in the sides that had been treated with tetracycline.