Implantation of Achilles tendon using an autogenous tunica vaginalis graft in dogs

Abstract

The aim of this article is to utilize the tunica vaginalis as an autogenous graft for reconstruction of the Achilles tendon rupture. We created an experimental model of Achilles tendon defect In 12 local breed dogs by removing 1cm from it and then a tube from an autogenous tunica vaginalis graft was made and the two ends of the severed tendon were sutured into the tube graft with interrupted sutures. The animals were divided into 4 equal groups and we studied the healing process through clinical, gross pathological, and histological characteristics at 15, 30, 60, and 120 days after surgery. The results of histological studies showed the formation of granulation tissue with the cellular proliferation of fibroblast at 15 days, with a relative lowering of the cellular content at the 120 days, besides changes in the structural organization of collagen fibers. Conclusions: In the current study we noted that a tunica vaginalis graft can be a successful tendon defect substitute in the dogs model.