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Int J Sports Med 2007; 28(8): 691-696
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-964864
Orthopedics & Biomechanics

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Postoperative Programmed Muscle Tension Augmented Osteotendinous Junction Repair

W. Wang1 , H. H. Chen2 , X. H. Yang2 , G. Xu2 , K. M. Chan1 , L. Qin1
  • 1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
  • 2Guang Zhou Research Institute of Traumatology, Guang Zhou Red Cross Hospital, Guang Zhou, China
Further Information

Publication History

accepted after revision May 5, 2006

Publication Date:
11 May 2007 (online)

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Abstract

The postoperative programmed muscle tension induced by functional electrical stimulation (FES) was evaluated for its potential efficacy on acceleration of osteotendinous junction healing using an established partial patellectomy model in rabbits. After immobilization of the operated knee for 6 weeks, daily FES was applied to quadriceps muscles for 30 minutes per day and 5 days per week for 6 weeks in the treatment group and compared with the non-treatment control group at postoperative week 12 and 18, radiologically, histologically and biomechanically. Results showed that FES-induced muscle tension significantly increased new bone formation, bone mineral density, and fibrocartilage zone restoration in the osteotendinous healing interface. The failure load and ultimate strength of the repairing osteotendinous complex were also improved significantly with healing over time. In conclusion, the postoperative programmed FES-induced muscle tension was favorable for acceleration of osteotendinous junction repair and therefore recommended for clinical trails in orthopedic sports medicine and rehabilitation.

Key words

osteotendinous healing - functional electrical stimulation - new bone formation - fibrocartilage - tensile strength

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Prof. Ling Qin

Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology
The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Email: lingqin@cuhk.edu.hk