[Spontaneous tendon ruptures. Etiology, pathogenesis and therapy]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

• Spontaneous tendon ruptures result from microtrauma, muscular imbalance, poor coordination, and age-related circulatory decline.
• Rotator cuff ruptures are more common with age, and trauma is a factor in about 50% of cases.
• Biceps and Achilles tendon ruptures are less common but linked to specific activities and training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the causes, contributing factors, and management strategies for spontaneous tendon ruptures.
• To differentiate between traumatic and degenerative etiologies.
• To outline treatment options based on patient demographics and injury type.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on tendon rupture etiology and treatment.
• Analysis of factors contributing to rotator cuff, biceps, and Achilles tendon injuries.
• Comparison of surgical and non-surgical management approaches.

Main Results:

• Age and mechanical loading are key factors in rotator cuff degeneration and rupture.
• Trauma is a significant cause, particularly for subscapularis and distal biceps tendon ruptures.
• Treatment decisions for rotator cuff tears depend on patient age and activity, with surgical repair favored for younger individuals.

Conclusions:

• Tendon rupture management requires consideration of age, activity level, and injury specifics.
• While non-operative measures like physical therapy are used, surgical intervention remains crucial for certain ruptures, especially in athletes.
• Understanding the multifactorial causes is key to effective prevention and treatment strategies.