Full -Function Restoration of Achilles Tendon with Nanofibrous Implant (experimental study)

Abstract

Creation of implants for the restoration of ligaments and tendons in their complete/massive injury is an urgent task. The efficacy of the restoration of completely resected Achilles tendons after implantation of a new material consisting of absorbable pledged threads Dar-Vin USP 5/0 and conductive nonofibrous scaffolds of polyhydroxybutyrate placed around the threads into the zone of defect was studied in Wistar rats. Either nanofibrous implant (experiment) or pledged threads (control 1) were placed into the zone of completely resected Achilles tendon (control 1), or the postresection wound was sutured without placement of any material (control 2). It was stated that from 2nd to 13th week after implantation of nanofibrous implant the animals from the experimental group used their hind paws in full volume. In control groups 1 and 2 the animals moved with difficulties. In the experimental group of animals in 6 and 13 weeks after implantation a soft tissue regenerate connecting the calcanean tuber and gastrocnemius muscle was present with the absence of gastrocnemius muscle contracture as compared with the control groups. Histologic examination showed the similarity of the regenerate on nanofibrous implant with the native Achilles tendon. Thus, the suggested implant ensured functional and morphologic restoration of totally resected Achilles tendon in rats and can be considered as a perspective prototype of new materials initiating effective regeneration of ligaments and tendons in their massive injuries.