The outcomes of peritendon tissue free-grafted on the tendon surface

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to observe the gross and histological changes of free-grafted peritendon tissue.MethodsThe incisions were made in the bilateral Achilles tendon sites in six healthy rabbits weighing 2.0–2.5 kg. The peritendon tissue flaps of about 2.0 cm × 0.5 cm size were harvested and free-grafted into the contralateral donor sites. After 3 weeks, three animals were sacrificed, and after 6 weeks the remaining three animals were sacrificed. The peritendon tissue specimens were sampled for gross observation and histological observation.ResultsGross observation after 3 weeks: the peritendon tissue became thick, there was tissue proliferation, and the deep surface was smooth. Histological observation after 3 weeks: inflammatory cells in the peritendon tissue were observed, many fibroblasts proliferated in the superficial surface, and some neovascularization was observed. Tissue growth could be seen in the suture site. Gross observation after 6 weeks: the peritendon tissue looked thick and the deep surface was smooth. Histological observation after 6 weeks: inflammatory cells in the peritendon tissue were significantly reduced and there were still more fibroblasts in the tissues. Neovascularization was obvious and the suture site was firmly healed. No signs of necrosis were found at the two time points, and the structure of the free-grafted peritendon tissue was almost the same as the structure of the peripheral tissue.ConclusionThe peritendon tissue can survive well after being free-grafted into the tendon surface and the structure shows no obvious changes.