Recombinant fibroblast growth protein enhances healing ability of experimentally induced tendon injuryin vivo

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate the effects of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on a complete superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) rupture after surgical repair in rabbits. Eighty mature New Zealand White rabbits of both sexes were randomly divided into two equal groups: Treated and Control. Each group was subdivided into two 28- and 84-day post-injury subgroups. After tenotomy and surgical repair, the animals were immobilized for 14 days. In the treated group, bFGF was directly applied subcutaneously over the lesion on days 3, 7 and 10 after injury. The control animals received normal saline injection of the same viscosity and volume and at the same intervals. Ultrasonographical observations were conducted at weekly intervals. The animals were euthanized at 28 and 84 days after injury. The tendons were evaluated at macroscopic, histopathologic and ultrastructural levels and were assessed for biomechanical and percentage dry weight parameters. Compared to injured control animals, treated animals showed a decrease in the diameter of the injured tendon and peritendinous adhesion as well as increased tenoblast proliferation, collagen production and ultimate strength of the injured tendons (p < 0.005). At 84 days after injury, treatment resulted in enhanced maturation of the cellular and collagen elements and improved tissue alignment and density. These improvements resulted in increased biomechanical performance of the injured tendons compared to controls (p = 0.001). bFGF showed promising curative effects on restoration of the biomechanical and morphological properties of the ruptured SDFT in rabbits and may be applicable in clinical studies.