The histological effect of tranexamic acid on tendon-to-bone healing histologically in rats

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) on osteotendinous junction healing in a rat model, both biomechanically and histologically.

Sixty-four male Wistar-Albino rats weighing 450 to 600 g were used in this study. The rats were divided into two groups as the experimental (n=16) and control (n=16) groups. Achillotomy and subsequent repair site was exposed to 1 mL of TXA in the experimental group, while 1 mL of saline was given to the control group. For biomechanical and histopathological investigation, each group was further divided into two subgroups. At the end of four weeks, all rats were sacrificed. Biomechanical tests were performed using the M500-50CT device. The Bonar, Movin, and Nourissat bone-tendon junction scoring systems were used for histopathological evaluation.

There was no statistically significant difference in the elongation at a maximum point, maximum loading, and maximum stress variables in the biomechanical study (p=0.558 p=0.775, and p=0.558, respectively). In the histopathological evaluation, the collagen content and layout were close to the native tissue in the experimental group (p=0.047 and p=0.008, respectively). Vascularity, hyalinization, and glycosaminoglycan content were significantly lower in the experimental group (p=0.004, p=0.014, and p=0.026, respectively). The total Bonar and Movin scores were more favorable in the experimental group (p<0.001).

This experimental study showed that local administration of TXA accelerated bone-tendon junction healing in rats.