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Dimethyl sulfoxide. Biomechanical effects on tendons
Abstract:
Forty-eight mice were treated for 12 time periods from 0 days through 28 days at 24-hour intervals by rinsing the skin area of the Achilles tendon of each hindleg with 100 microliters of a solution of 70% drug grade dimethyl sulfoxide in 30% sterile water. After the treatment period the mice were killed and the Achilles tendons were subjected to separation force analysis to determine tensile strength. The mean separation force was shown to be a function of the treatment period (P = 0.0294) with a significant linear component (P = 0.0049), a significant quadratic component (P = 0.0036), and a significant cubic component (P = 0.0049). The model identified an initial area of decreasing mean separation force (0 to 7 days), an area of increasing mean separation force (7 to 22 days), and a subsequent area of decreasing mean separation force (22 to 28 days). The maximum decrease in the group mean separation force was 20.2% and was observed in the 7-day treatment group. The clinical significance of the results of this study was that the topical application of dimethyl sulfoxide was associated with periods of decreased mean separation forces in tendons. The avoidance of vigorous muscular activity is recommended during therapy with dimethyl sulfoxide.
Insights
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) topical application affects Achilles tendon strength over time. Tendon separation force decreased initially, then increased, and decreased again, suggesting caution during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a common topical agent with potential effects on connective tissues.
- Understanding DMSO's impact on tendon biomechanics is crucial for clinical applications and patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of topical dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) application on the tensile strength of Achilles tendons in mice.
- To determine the time-dependent changes in tendon mechanical properties following DMSO treatment.
Main Methods:
- Forty-eight mice underwent daily topical application of 70% DMSO solution to their Achilles tendons for up to 28 days.
- Achilles tendons were harvested and subjected to separation force analysis to measure tensile strength.
- Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant trends and components (linear, quadratic, cubic) in the force-time data.
Main Results:
- Mean separation force of Achilles tendons was significantly influenced by the duration of DMSO treatment (P = 0.0294).
- A complex pattern was observed: decreased force from 0-7 days, increased force from 7-22 days, and decreased force from 22-28 days.
- The maximum reduction in mean separation force was 20.2% at 7 days of treatment.
Conclusions:
- Topical DMSO application alters Achilles tendon mechanical properties in a time-dependent manner.
- The observed decreases in tendon separation force suggest potential vulnerability during specific treatment periods.
- Recommendations include avoiding strenuous activity during DMSO therapy to mitigate risks associated with reduced tendon strength.