The Achilles tendon is the largest ligament in the human body, known for its toughness and resilience. Despite its strength, it can still rupture, often seen in sports enthusiasts in their 30s or 40s. Treatment for a ruptured Achilles tendon typically involves surgery and a prolonged period of rest, immobilization, and rehabilitation. Seeking ways to shorten the recovery time, a research team led by Osaka Metropolitan University’s Graduate School of Medicine conducted a study focusing on non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma as a potential treatment method.
The research team, consisting of graduate student Katsumasa Nakazawa, Associate Professor Hiromitsu Toyoda, Professor Hiroaki Nakamura, and Professor Jun-Seok Oh, aimed to investigate the effects of plasma irradiation on tendon repair. They conducted experiments on lab rats by rupturing and suturing their Achilles tendons. One group of rats received irradiation with a helium plasma jet on the sutured area, while another group did not receive any treatment. The results showed that the plasma-irradiated group exhibited faster tendon regeneration and increased strength at two, four, and six weeks post-surgery compared to the untreated group.
This study is the first to demonstrate that non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma irradiation can accelerate tendon repair. The team’s previous research had focused on the technology’s ability to promote bone regeneration, and they were pleased to discover its potential for enhancing tendon healing as well. Professor Toyoda emphasized the significance of this finding, stating that the technology could have applications in a wide range of fields. By combining plasma treatment with existing tendon therapies, the researchers hope to improve the reliability of tendon regeneration and reduce the overall treatment time.
The promising results of this study offer new possibilities for enhancing tendon repair and rehabilitation. With the potential to speed up the healing process and improve overall outcomes, non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma treatment could revolutionize the management of Achilles tendon injuries. By harnessing the regenerative properties of plasma irradiation, researchers aim to provide more effective and efficient treatment options for patients suffering from ruptured Achilles tendons.
Moving forward, further research is needed to validate the efficacy and safety of plasma treatment for tendon injuries in human patients. Clinical trials are essential to confirm the findings of this study and determine the optimal protocols for implementing plasma therapy in clinical practice. By continuing to explore the potential of non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma in tendon repair, researchers may unlock new possibilities for improving the outcomes of patients with Achilles tendon ruptures. This innovative approach has the potential to transform the field of orthopedic medicine and provide hope for individuals facing challenging tendon injuries.