The effect of a local application of fibroblast growth factor-2 on tendon-to-bone remodeling in rats with acute injury and repair of the supraspinatus tendon

Methods We investigated the effect of application of fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 on the tendon-to-bone remodeling of repaired supraspinatus tendon in rats subjected to bilateral detachment. FGF-2 (100 mg/kg) in a fibrin sealant or sealant alone was applied on the right and left shoulders, respectively. Twelve animals each at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after surgery were sacrificed for histological analysis (n = 5) and biomechanical Q1 testing (n = 7). Results Histologically, at 2 weeks, FGF-treated specimens had significantly higher tendon-to-bone insertion maturing scores then untreated specimens ( P P > .05). Biomechanically, FGF-treated specimens were stronger at 2 weeks ( P = .001); at 4 and 6 weeks, both specimens exhibited similar strength ( P > .05). Conclusions The initial tendon-to-bone remodeling was accelerated by a local application of FGF-2. This may represent a clinically important improvement in rotator cuff repair. Level of evidence Basic science study.