Commentary on an article by Noriyuki Ishiyama, MD, et al.: “Reduction of Peritendinous Adhesions by Hydrogel Containing Biocompatible Phospholipid Polymer MPC for Tendon Repair”

Abstract

Peritendinous adhesions that form after the repair of lacerated digital flexor tendons cause stiffness and functional impairment. In the healing process, tendon regeneration and scarring are, probably, the two sides of the same coin. Surgeons, physical therapists, and basic scientists have explored new surgical and rehabilitation methods, pharmacological modalities, and nonpharmacological modalities (including ultrasound and pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation) to allow unrestricted gliding of the digital tendons. Pharmacological adjuvants fall into two main categories, namely, drugs (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hyaluronic acid, and 5-fluorouracil) and barriers1,2. The authors explored a novel management modality …