Macro Fat Graft Application for Preventing Tendon Adhesion After Tendon Repair: An Experimental Study in Rats

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Tendon adhesion is a frequent complication after tendon repair, causing restricted movement.
• Effective strategies to prevent tendon adhesions are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of autologous macro fat grafts in preventing tendon adhesions.
• To assess the impact of fat grafting on Achilles tendon repair in a Wistar rat model.

Main Methods:

• A randomized experimental study involving 36 Wistar rats divided into control and treatment groups.
• Autologous macro fat grafts were applied around the Achilles tendon in the treatment group post-repair.
• Histopathological analysis assessed tenocyte count, collagen density, and adhesion scores 3 weeks postintervention.

Main Results:

• The fat graft group exhibited significantly lower adhesion scores and grades compared to the control group.
• Collagen density was reduced in the treatment group, indicating altered tissue remodeling.
• Tenocyte count showed no significant difference between groups, suggesting no substantial impact on cell proliferation.

Conclusions:

• Autologous macro fat grafting effectively reduces tendon adhesions and collagen density following Achilles tendon repair.
• Fat grafting shows potential as a therapeutic strategy to mitigate postoperative adhesions.
• The study did not observe a significant effect of fat grafting on tenocyte proliferation.