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Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research

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Open Access 01-12-2014 | Research article

Healing of the Achilles tendon in rabbits—evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging and histopathology

Authors: Wilson Campos Tavares Jr, Ubiratam Brum de Castro, Eduardo Paulino Jr, Leonardo de Souza Vasconcellos, Ana Paula Madureira, Maria Angélica Baron Magalhães, Daniel Victor Moreira Mendes, Adriana Maria Kakehasi, Vivian Resende

Published in: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research | Issue 1/2014

Abstract

Background

Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) could provide valuable findings for tendon regeneration. A non-invasive image method that can effectively evaluate the quality of the scar tissue has not yet been employed.

Methods

Thirteen New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups: group 1—non-treated control (n = 4); group 2—surgical intervention (n = 9). The central portion of the Achilles tendon was resected, and after 30 days, DCE-MRI was performed. Contrast enhancement methods were applied using the region of interest (ROI) technique. In the medium third of the Achilles tendon, the intra-substantial signal intensity and the presence of hyper-intense intra-tendon focus points and of signal heterogeneity were evaluated. Antero-posterior and transversal diameters of the tendon were measured. The Achilles tendon was removed and dissected free from other tissues. Sections from the central part of the tendon were stained for histological analysis.

Results

The difference between the contrast enhancement curves of the control and surgical groups (p < 0.0001) was observed. The surgical group had an intense contrast enhancement in the contrast sequences, enlargement of the diameter and intra-substantial signal intensity alteration, with hyper-signal focus points and widening of the tendon sheath, which presented irregular contours and intense contrast enhancement. On histology, the Achilles tendon presented diffuse widening of the tendon sheath and wedge-shaped areas with scarring tissue rich in disordered collagen fibres. These findings were related to alteration in the intra-substantial signal intensity, with hyper-signal focus points in the DCE-MRI.

Conclusions

MRI with perfusion could be a useful technique for evaluating tissue and fibrous scarring in tendons.

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Title: Healing of the Achilles tendon in rabbits—evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging and histopathology
Authors: Wilson Campos Tavares Jr
Ubiratam Brum de Castro
Eduardo Paulino Jr
Leonardo de Souza Vasconcellos
Ana Paula Madureira
Maria Angélica Baron Magalhães
Daniel Victor Moreira Mendes
Adriana Maria Kakehasi
Vivian Resende
Publication date: 01-12-2014
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research / Issue 1/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1749-799X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-014-0132-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Healing of the Achilles tendon in rabbits—evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging and histopathology

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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