Experiment study on prevention of tendon adhesion with different types of barriers

Objective To compare the effectiveness of different types of barriers in preyention of tendon adhesion in animal models and provide basis for clinical application. Methods Forfy male white New-Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 4 groups.with 10 each.The second and third toes of the left hind legs were paired within groups.Flexor tendon of the second toe was transected at the proximal phalanx level and repaired by modified Kessler's procedure.In group A(control group),the wound Was closed directly.In group B1,C1 and D1,sodium hyaluronate,chitosan and bioeolloid was spread around the tenorrhaphy site respectively.In group.A2,B2,C2 and D2,polylactic acid absorbable membrane was wrapped around the tenorrhaphy site after flexor tendon of the thiId toe was cut and repaired.The resuhs were evaluated grossly,histologically and biomechanically 6 weeks later. Resuits The gross and histological appearance demonstrated that tendon adhesion in each experiment group was significantly reduced compared to that of the control group.Tendons in group B1 and C2 had the least adhesion.The sliding distance and ranges of motion were significantly higher in the experimental groups.However there was no significant difference in tensile strength among all the groups(P＞0.05). Conclusion Polylactic acid absorbable membrane,sodium hyaluronate,ehitosan and biocolloid materials can reduce tendon adhesion without affecting the tensile strength.Among those sodium hyaluronate and chitosan plus absorbable membrane fife the most effective. Key words: Tendons;  Bioeompatible materials;  Animal experimentation;  Adhesion