Tendinopathy Induced by Serial Low-Dose Collagenase Injections: A Novel Experimental Animal Model in the Achilles Tendon of Rabbits

摘要

Category:Basic Sciences/BiologicsIntroduction/Purpose:Numerous studies, as evident in literature, have attempted to develop an induced Achilles tendinopathy animal model. The most common models include collagenase injections and mechanical overload of the tendon, but both are controversial. The mechanical overload model creates a chronically induced tendinopathy and is time intensive. In addition, once the stimulus is removed the tissue changes often heal. The collagenase injection model is quicker, rarely evolve to healing but frequently results in an early acute tendon reaction. The primary objective of this study is to compare biomechanical and histological findings between two collagenase induced Achilles tendinopathy protocols. The hypothesis is that consecutive low-dose collagenase injections will result in progressive and long-lasting tendinopathy findings as compared to the traditional single high-dose injection.Methods:In this IRB approved study, the population was composed of forty-eight (n=48) ...