Abstract
Tendons are unique forms of connective tissue aiming to transmit the mechanical force of muscle contraction to the bones. Tendon injury may be due to direct trauma or might be secondary to overuse injury and age-related degeneration, leading to inflammation, weakening and subsequent rupture. Current traditional treatment strategies focus on pain relief, reduction of the inflammation and functional restoration. Tendon repair surgery can be performed in people with tendon injuries to restore the tendon’s function, with re-rupture being the main potential complication. Novel therapeutic approaches that address the underlying pathology of the disease is warranted. Scaffolds represent a promising solution to the challenges associated with tendon tissue engineering. The ideal scaffold for tendon tissue engineering needs to exhibit physiologically relevant mechanical properties and to facilitate functional graft integration by promoting the regeneration of the native tissue.
Highlights
Tendons exhibit superior mechanical strength and flexibility in order to perform their pivotal role as an active element in joint stability during movement and physical exercise [1]
A recent study by Proctor showed promising results at a follow-up of 42 months after arthroscopic repair of large and massive rotator cuff tears augmented by the use of a poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) synthetic scaffold [44]
The accurate selection of the appropriate type of scaffold by the clinician will be based on its relative advantages and limitations
Summary
Tendons exhibit superior mechanical strength and flexibility in order to perform their pivotal role as an active element in joint stability during movement and physical exercise [1]. Surgery remains a questionable and imperfect solution due to reduced mechanical strength, possible wound infection and donor site morbidity [8]. In this regard, tissue engineering strategies, including the concept of scaffold induced endogenous tissue repair, have gained popularity due to their assured biocompatibility and bioactivity [1,8]. The scaffolds can mimic the extracellular matrix of the surrounding environment in terms of composition and architecture They pose cell adhesion sites, in order to promote cellular adhesion and proliferation [1,9]. Successful tendon repair (restoration of the functional, structural and biomechanical properties of tendon) that will lead to a clinically effective and commercially successful product in orthopaedics, remains a significant clinical challenge
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
