Tensiometric evaluation of the effect of lowfrequency electric stimulation on healing Achilles tendons in rats

• Published in: Acta cirúrgica brasileira 2020, Vol.35 (11)
• Main Authors: Casagrande, Sharbo Martins, Biondo-Simões, Maria de Lourdes Pessole, Berti, Lucas Freitas, Robes, Rogério Ribeiro, Biondo-Simões, Rachel, Nakadomari, Thaísa Sami, Henning Junior, Lucélio
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Achilles Tendon; Biomechanical Phenomena; Electric Stimulation; Rats; Wound Healing
• ISSN: 0102-8650; 1678-2674
• DOI: 10.1590/acb351103

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effects of low-frequency electric stimulation on biomechanics following surgical treatment of the Achilles tendon in rats. Methods: Forty-two rats were divided into two groups. One was given electric stimulation and the other was not. All were submitted to Achilles tenotomy and tenorrhaphy performed with a modified Kessler stitch. The experiment group underwent electric stimulation with 2 Hz, a nonpolarized current of 1 mA intensity for 14 days. The animals were euthanized at 2, 4 and 6 weeks for the biomechanical study. Results: The work performed, that is, the tendon’s capacity to absorb energy until rupture, was greater in the electrically stimulated group in the 2nd (p = 0.032) and in the 6th week (p = 0.010). The maximum tension, which is the capacity to support a load, was higher in the treated group in the 2nd (p = 0.030) and the 6th week (p = 024). These results indicate greater resistance of the electrically stimulated tendons. An analysis of the elastic module showed no differences. Conclusion: Low-frequency electric stimulation increased the resistance of the tendons at 2 and 6 weeks of evolution in rats.