New therapies in tendon reconstruction.

Abstract

Despite the use of various types of grafts, no surgical treatment currently exists to restore a tendon to its normal condition. Tissue engineering techniques are being used to develop therapies for tendon reconstruction. Biologic and synthetic scaffolds can both repair tendon defects and improve healing by allowing for the regeneration of the tendon's natural biologic composition to restore its mechanical capacity. This process can be further enhanced through augmentation methods such as cell seeding, growth factor implantation, and gene therapy.