Our Summary
The research paper discusses the use of biological supplements to help heal rotator cuff injuries (damage to the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint). The paper suggests that a treatment using allogenic dermal fibroblasts (cells taken from skin) could be beneficial for healing these types of injuries. These cells can be injected directly into the injury or embedded into a collagen scaffold (a structure that allows cells to attach and grow).
The research showed that this treatment was more effective than another treatment using platelet-rich plasma (a component of blood that can aid in healing), as it resulted in a better quality of healing in terms of biology and mechanical behavior.
The paper also notes that there are promising results from a type of graft called an acellular dermal matrix (a skin graft that lacks cells), used in a different type of shoulder repair. The researchers suggest that injecting the dermal cells directly into the injury could enhance healing even more than this graft.
However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to make the treatment widely available in a clinical setting.
FAQs
- What is the potential benefit of using allogenic dermal fibroblasts in rotator cuff repair?
- How does the use of allogenic dermal fibroblasts compare to the use of platelet-rich plasma in terms of healing quality?
- What is an acellular dermal matrix and how might it be used in shoulder repair treatments?
Doctor’s Tip
In addition to the potential use of biological supplements, a doctor may also advise a patient undergoing rotator cuff repair surgery to follow a rehabilitation program to help regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder. Physical therapy exercises and stretches can help prevent stiffness and improve function in the shoulder joint. It is important for the patient to follow the rehabilitation program prescribed by their healthcare provider to optimize their recovery and long-term outcomes.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for rotator cuff repair are those who have suffered from a rotator cuff tear or other injury to the shoulder muscles and tendons. These injuries can be caused by repetitive overhead motions, traumatic events, or degenerative changes in the shoulder joint. Patients who experience pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing daily activities due to their shoulder injury are good candidates for rotator cuff repair surgery.
It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a medical professional, such as an orthopedic surgeon, to determine the best course of treatment for their specific injury. In some cases, conservative treatments such as physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended before considering surgery. However, for patients with severe or chronic rotator cuff injuries, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tissue and restore function to the shoulder joint.
Overall, patients who are in good overall health and have a strong motivation to participate in rehabilitation and follow-up care are typically recommended for rotator cuff repair surgery. The use of biological supplements, such as allogenic dermal fibroblasts, may be considered as part of the treatment plan to enhance the healing process and improve outcomes for these patients.
Timeline
Before rotator cuff repair: The patient may experience shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. They may undergo imaging tests such as MRI to diagnose the rotator cuff injury.
Rotator cuff repair surgery: The patient undergoes arthroscopic surgery to repair the torn muscles and tendons in the shoulder joint. The surgery may involve reattaching the torn tendon to the bone using sutures or anchors.
Post-surgery recovery: The patient will undergo physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder. They may wear a sling for a period of time to protect the shoulder during the initial healing process.
Use of biological supplements: In some cases, the patient may be treated with biological supplements such as allogenic dermal fibroblasts, platelet-rich plasma, or acellular dermal matrix to enhance the healing process. These supplements can be injected directly into the injury site or embedded into a collagen scaffold.
Follow-up care: The patient will continue with physical therapy and follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor the healing process and ensure a successful recovery.
Overall, the use of biological supplements in combination with traditional rotator cuff repair surgery may help improve the quality of healing and outcomes for patients with rotator cuff injuries.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What is a rotator cuff repair and why is it necessary for my injury?
- What are the benefits of using biological supplements, such as allogenic dermal fibroblasts, for rotator cuff repair compared to other treatments?
- How is the allogenic dermal fibroblast treatment administered and what is the expected recovery time?
- What are the potential risks or side effects associated with using biological supplements for rotator cuff repair?
- Are there any specific criteria or factors that would make me a good candidate for this type of treatment?
- How does the use of allogenic dermal fibroblasts compare to other treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma or acellular dermal matrix grafts?
- Are there any ongoing clinical trials or research studies investigating the effectiveness of biological supplements for rotator cuff repair?
- What is the success rate of this treatment in terms of long-term outcomes and preventing re-injury?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or rehabilitation exercises that I should follow after undergoing rotator cuff repair with biological supplements?
- How can I access this treatment and are there any financial considerations to be aware of?
Reference
Authors: Ankem HK. Journal: Arthroscopy. 2022 Jul;38(7):2129-2130. doi: 10.1016/j.arthro.2022.01.030. PMID: 35809975