Carbon fibres and plasma-preserved tendon allografts for gap repair of flexor tendon in bovines: clinical, radiological and angiographical observations

J Vet Med A Physiol Pathol Clin Med. 2002 Apr;49(3):161-8. doi: 10.1046/j.1439-0442.2002.00424.x.

Abstract

Twenty-four tenorrhaphies were performed at the mid-metatarsal region in 12 crossbred calves under xylazine-ketamine spinal analgesia. A 2.5-cm long gap was created in the superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon and immediately repaired with carbon fibres in the animals of group I and with plasma-preserved tendon allografts in group II. Clinical examination revealed a slight increase (P > 0.05) in rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rate for 2-4 days postoperation in both groups. Milder pain and exudation as well as earlier restoration of tendon gliding movements and weight bearing were observed in group I as compared to group II. Air-tendogram in the carbon fibre group on day 30 revealed restoration of continuity across the defect of the tendon. whereas, in the allograft group, a dense homogeneous swelling was seen along the flexors. Regression of peritendinous adhesions and swelling at the reconstructed site at later stages was seen in both groups. Angiography showed hypervascularization at the reconstructed site on day 14 in the carbon fibre group, however, in the allograft group the site appeared to be relatively avascular. On days 30 and 90, blood vessels were normally organized in both groups.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Angiography / veterinary
  • Animals
  • Carbon Fiber
  • Carbon*
  • Cattle / injuries*
  • Cattle / surgery*
  • Hindlimb
  • Male
  • Plasma
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Tendon Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Tendon Injuries / pathology
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery
  • Tendon Injuries / veterinary*
  • Tendons / transplantation*
  • Tissue Preservation / veterinary
  • Toes
  • Wound Healing

Substances

  • Carbon Fiber
  • Carbon