Histological observation of the angiogenic effect of bFGF combined to freeze- dried tendon in ACL reconstruction at early stage / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To observe histologically the effect of exogenous application of bFGF (basic fibroblast growth factor) combined to freeze- dried tendon on angiogenic enhancement in early ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction. Methods 14 dogs were used in the experiment. 100 ng/mL bFGF was combined to freeze- dried tendon and then transplanted into one side knee to substitute the original ACL, while only freeze- dried tendon was used in the transplantation at the other side as control. The ACLs were harvested each week from 1 to 6 weeks from the 14 dogs respectively. The histological observation with HE staining was done under microscope to mainly observe the angiogenesis in the transplanted ACL. Results Neovascularization occurred at 2nd to 3rd week and reached the peak at 4th to 5th week postoperatively at the experimental sides. By contrast, the neovascularization occurred at 4th to 5th week postoperatively at the control sides. Conclusion The time of neovascular formation and the depth of vascular penetration into the tendon in the group of bFGF combined to freeze- dried tendon are superior to those in the control group.