-
Tidsskrift For Den Norske Laegeforening... Jan 2010Knowledge of biomechanics and the cervical spine's anatomy has become more topical as the incidence of whiplash neck disorders has increased. Unfortunately, injuries... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Knowledge of biomechanics and the cervical spine's anatomy has become more topical as the incidence of whiplash neck disorders has increased. Unfortunately, injuries after traffic accidents are often brought to court, where the medical expert's knowledge is of utmost importance to ensure a correct medical evaluation.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The article is based on information identified through non-systematic searches of PubMed and on the author's experience as a professor of anatomy.
RESULTS
The cervical spine is particularly vulnerable to forces perpendicular to the length axis. Stability depends largely on the soft tissue. Injuries of soft tissue (especially in ligaments and intervertebral discs) may lead to instability and periosteal reaction with subsequent new formation of bone.
INTERPRETATION
The cervical spine is a relatively weak and vulnerable part of the body. One should consider locally restricted new formations of tissue with corresponding height reduction of the intervertebral disc as a sign of genuine injury.
Topics: Adult; Animals; Biological Evolution; Biomechanical Phenomena; Cervical Vertebrae; Child; Humans; Intervertebral Disc; Ligaments; Odontoid Process; Spinal Injuries
PubMed: 20094120
DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.09.0296 -
Military Medical Research Nov 2022Bone, cartilage, and soft tissue regeneration is a complex spatiotemporal process recruiting a variety of cell types, whose activity and interplay must be precisely... (Review)
Review
Bone, cartilage, and soft tissue regeneration is a complex spatiotemporal process recruiting a variety of cell types, whose activity and interplay must be precisely mediated for effective healing post-injury. Although extensive strides have been made in the understanding of the immune microenvironment processes governing bone, cartilage, and soft tissue regeneration, effective clinical translation of these mechanisms remains a challenge. Regulation of the immune microenvironment is increasingly becoming a favorable target for bone, cartilage, and soft tissue regeneration; therefore, an in-depth understanding of the communication between immune cells and functional tissue cells would be valuable. Herein, we review the regulatory role of the immune microenvironment in the promotion and maintenance of stem cell states in the context of bone, cartilage, and soft tissue repair and regeneration. We discuss the roles of various immune cell subsets in bone, cartilage, and soft tissue repair and regeneration processes and introduce novel strategies, for example, biomaterial-targeting of immune cell activity, aimed at regulating healing. Understanding the mechanisms of the crosstalk between the immune microenvironment and regeneration pathways may shed light on new therapeutic opportunities for enhancing bone, cartilage, and soft tissue regeneration through regulation of the immune microenvironment.
Topics: Humans; Cartilage; Bone and Bones; Wound Healing
PubMed: 36401295
DOI: 10.1186/s40779-022-00426-8 -
Medicine and Science in Sports and... Oct 2019Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) has been reported to improve joint range of motion (flexibility). However, it is not clear whether this change in... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
PURPOSE
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) has been reported to improve joint range of motion (flexibility). However, it is not clear whether this change in the joint range of motion is accompanied by any alterations in the mechanical and/or neural properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of IASTM in plantarflexors and Achilles tendon on the mechanical and neural properties of them.
METHODS
This randomized, controlled, crossover study included 14 healthy volunteers (11 men and 3 women, 21-32 yr). IASTM was performed on the skin over the posterior part of the lower leg for 5 min and targeted the soft tissues (gastrocnemii, soleus, and tibialis posterior muscles; overlying deep fascia; and Achilles tendon). As a control condition, the same participants rested for 5 min between pre- and postmeasurements without IASTM on a separate day. The maximal ankle joint dorsiflexion angle (dorsiflexion range of motion), the peak passive torque (stretch tolerance), and the ankle joint stiffness (slope of the relationship between passive torque and ankle joint angle) during the measurement of the dorsiflexion range of motion and muscle stiffness of the triceps surae (using shear wave elastography) were measured before and immediately after the interventions.
RESULTS
After IASTM, the dorsiflexion range of motion significantly increased by 10.7% ± 10.8% and ankle joint stiffness significantly decreased by -6.2% ± 10.1%. However, peak passive torque and muscle stiffness did not change. All variables remained unchanged in the repeated measurements of controls.
CONCLUSION
IASTM can improve joint range of motion, without affecting the mechanical and neural properties of the treated muscles.
Topics: Achilles Tendon; Adult; Ankle Joint; Biomechanical Phenomena; Cross-Over Studies; Elasticity Imaging Techniques; Electromyography; Female; Humans; Male; Muscle, Skeletal; Range of Motion, Articular; Therapy, Soft Tissue; Young Adult
PubMed: 31083046
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002035 -
Acta Biomaterialia Jul 2017Despite tremendous advances in the field of regenerative medicine, it still remains challenging to repair the osteochondral interface and full-thickness articular... (Review)
Review
UNLABELLED
Despite tremendous advances in the field of regenerative medicine, it still remains challenging to repair the osteochondral interface and full-thickness articular cartilage defects. This inefficiency largely originates from the lack of appropriate tissue-engineered artificial matrices that can replace the damaged regions and promote tissue regeneration. Hydrogels are emerging as a promising class of biomaterials for both soft and hard tissue regeneration. Many critical properties of hydrogels, such as mechanical stiffness, elasticity, water content, bioactivity, and degradation, can be rationally designed and conveniently tuned by proper selection of the material and chemistry. Particularly, advances in the development of cell-laden hydrogels have opened up new possibilities for cell therapy. In this article, we describe the problems encountered in this field and review recent progress in designing cell-hydrogel hybrid constructs for promoting the reestablishment of osteochondral/cartilage tissues. Our focus centers on the effects of hydrogel type, cell type, and growth factor delivery on achieving efficient chondrogenesis and osteogenesis. We give our perspective on developing next-generation matrices with improved physical and biological properties for osteochondral/cartilage tissue engineering. We also highlight recent advances in biomanufacturing technologies (e.g. molding, bioprinting, and assembly) for fabrication of hydrogel-based osteochondral and cartilage constructs with complex compositions and microarchitectures to mimic their native counterparts.
STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
Despite tremendous advances in the field of regenerative medicine, it still remains challenging to repair the osteochondral interface and full-thickness articular cartilage defects. This inefficiency largely originates from the lack of appropriate tissue-engineered biomaterials that replace the damaged regions and promote tissue regeneration. Cell-laden hydrogel systems have emerged as a promising tissue-engineering platform to address this issue. In this article, we describe the fundamental problems encountered in this field and review recent progress in designing cell-hydrogel constructs for promoting the reestablishment of osteochondral/cartilage tissues. Our focus centers on the effects of hydrogel composition, cell type, and growth factor delivery on achieving efficient chondrogenesis and osteogenesis. We give our perspective on developing next-generation hydrogel/inorganic particle/stem cell hybrid composites with improved physical and biological properties for osteochondral/cartilage tissue engineering. We also highlight recent advances in biomanufacturing and bioengineering technologies (e.g. 3D bioprinting) for fabrication of hydrogel-based osteochondral and cartilage constructs.
Topics: Animals; Cartilage; Chondrogenesis; Humans; Hydrogels; Osteogenesis; Tissue Engineering
PubMed: 28088667
DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.01.036 -
Skin Research and Technology : Official... Mar 2023The skin is a protective barrier of the body against external factors, and its damage leads to a loss of integrity. Normal wound healing results in a correct, flat,...
BACKGROUND
The skin is a protective barrier of the body against external factors, and its damage leads to a loss of integrity. Normal wound healing results in a correct, flat, bright, and flexible scar. Initial skin damage and patient specific factors in wound healing contribute that many of these scars may progress into widespread or pathologic hypertrophic and keloid scars. The changes in cosmetic appearance, continuing pain, and loss of movement due to contracture or adhesion and persistent pruritis can significantly affect an individual's quality of life and psychological recovery post injury. Many different treatment methods can reduce the trauma and surgical scars. Manual scar treatment includes various techniques of therapy. The most effectiveness is a combined therapy, which has a multidirectional impact. Clinical observations show an effectiveness of manual scar therapy.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The aim of this work was to evaluate effectiveness of the scar manual therapy combined with complementary methods on the postoperative scars. Treatment protocol included two therapies during 30 min per week for 8 weeks. Therapy included manual scar manipulation, massage, cupping, dry needling, and taping.
RESULTS
Treatment had a significant positive effect to influence pain, pigmentation, pliability, pruritus, surface area, and scar stiffness. Improvement of skin parameters (scar elasticity, thickness, regularity, color) was also noticed.
CONCLUSION
To investigate the most effective manual therapy strategy, further studies are needed, evaluating comparisons of different individual and combined scar therapy modalities.
Topics: Humans; Cicatrix, Hypertrophic; Keloid; Pain; Pruritus; Quality of Life; Cicatrix; Wound Healing; Therapy, Soft Tissue; Cupping Therapy; Complementary Therapies; Dry Needling
PubMed: 36973982
DOI: 10.1111/srt.13272 -
Clinical Oral Implants Research Mar 2018The goal of Working Group 1 at the 2nd Consensus Meeting of the Osteology Foundation was to comprehensively assess the effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on... (Review)
Review
Evidence-based knowledge on the aesthetics and maintenance of peri-implant soft tissues: Osteology Foundation Consensus Report Part 1-Effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on the maintenance of peri-implant soft tissue health.
OBJECTIVES
The goal of Working Group 1 at the 2nd Consensus Meeting of the Osteology Foundation was to comprehensively assess the effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on peri-implant health or disease.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures included a total of 10 studies (mucosal thickness: n = 6; keratinized tissue: n = 4). Consensus statements, clinical recommendations, and implications for future research were based on structured group discussions and a plenary session approval.
RESULTS
Soft tissue grafting to increase the width of keratinized tissue around implants was associated with greater reductions in gingival and plaque indices when compared to non-augmented sites. Statistically significant differences were noted for final marginal bone levels in favor of an apically positioned flap plus autogenous graft vs. all standard-of-care control treatments investigated. Soft tissue grafting (i.e., autogenous connective tissue) to increase the mucosal thickness around implants in the aesthetic zone was associated with significantly less marginal bone loss over time, but no significant changes in bleeding on probing, probing depths, or plaque scores when compared to sites without grafting.
CONCLUSIONS
The limited evidence available supports the use of soft tissue augmentation procedures to promote peri-implant health.
Topics: Alveolar Ridge Augmentation; Connective Tissue; Consensus; Dental Implantation; Dental Implantation, Endosseous; Dental Implants; Gingiva; Humans; Jaw, Edentulous, Partially; Meta-Analysis as Topic; Mucous Membrane; Osteology; Surgical Flaps
PubMed: 29498127
DOI: 10.1111/clr.13110 -
British Journal of Sports Medicine Dec 2018The fascial system builds a three-dimensional continuum of soft, collagen-containing, loose and dense fibrous connective tissue that permeates the body and enables all...
The fascial system builds a three-dimensional continuum of soft, collagen-containing, loose and dense fibrous connective tissue that permeates the body and enables all body systems to operate in an integrated manner. Injuries to the fascial system cause a significant loss of performance in recreational exercise as well as high-performance sports, and could have a potential role in the development and perpetuation of musculoskeletal disorders, including lower back pain. Fascial tissues deserve more detailed attention in the field of sports medicine. A better understanding of their adaptation dynamics to mechanical loading as well as to biochemical conditions promises valuable improvements in terms of injury prevention, athletic performance and sports-related rehabilitation. This consensus statement reflects the state of knowledge regarding the role of fascial tissues in the discipline of sports medicine. It aims to (1) provide an overview of the contemporary state of knowledge regarding the fascial system from the (molecular and cellular responses) to the (mechanical properties), (2) summarise the responses of the fascial system to altered loading (physical exercise), to injury and other physiological challenges including ageing, (3) outline the methods available to study the fascial system, and (4) highlight the contemporary view of interventions that target fascial tissue in sport and exercise medicine. Advancing this field will require a coordinated effort of researchers and clinicians combining mechanobiology, exercise physiology and improved assessment technologies.
Topics: Adaptation, Physiological; Aging; Athletic Injuries; Athletic Performance; Biomedical Research; Consensus; Exercise; Fascia; Humans; Musculoskeletal Diseases; Sports; Sports Medicine
PubMed: 30072398
DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2018-099308 -
Medicine Dec 2023The anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) is versatile for soft-tissue reconstruction of various body defects because of its thick and vascularized fascia component. We present...
The anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) is versatile for soft-tissue reconstruction of various body defects because of its thick and vascularized fascia component. We present our clinical experience with the functional one-stage reconstruction of complicated soft-tissue defects using ALTs with vascularized fascia lata (FL). Between April 2018 and February 2022, we transferred ALTs with FL components for various soft-tissue defects in 15 patients. The FL component was used for reconstruction of hand & forearm tendon, medial and lateral patellar synovial membrane, plantar aponeurosis, abdominal wall, dura and Achilles tendon. Functional outcomes were evaluated in each patient. Partial flap necrosis occurred in 2 patients and were treated successfully with minimal surgical debridement and dressing. The vascularized fascia could replace a tendon and fascial component and all the patients achieved satisfactory results without major postoperative complications. Anterolateral thigh flaps with vascularized FL provide reliable fascial and tendon components for single-stage reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects.
Topics: Humans; Free Tissue Flaps; Plastic Surgery Procedures; Fascia Lata; Thigh; Soft Tissue Injuries; Achilles Tendon
PubMed: 38115317
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000036578 -
Medical Engineering & Physics Aug 2020Soft tissue injuries (STIs) affect patients of all age groups and represent a common worldwide clinical problem, resulting from conditions including trauma, infection,... (Review)
Review
Soft tissue injuries (STIs) affect patients of all age groups and represent a common worldwide clinical problem, resulting from conditions including trauma, infection, cancer and burns. Within the spectrum of STIs a mixture of tissues can be injured, ranging from skin to underlying nerves, blood vessels, tendons and cartilaginous tissues. However, significant limitations affect current treatment options and clinical demand for soft tissue and cartilage regenerative therapies continues to rise. Improving the regeneration of soft tissues has therefore become a key area of focus within tissue engineering. As an emerging technology, 3D bioprinting can be used to build complex soft tissue constructs "from the bottom up," by depositing cells, growth factors, extracellular matrices and other biomaterials in a layer-by-layer fashion. In this way, regeneration of cartilage, skin, vasculature, nerves, tendons and other bodily tissues can be performed in a patient specific manner. This review will focus on recent use of 3D bioprinting and other biofabrication strategies in soft tissue repair and regeneration. Biofabrication of a variety of soft tissue types will be reviewed following an overview of available cell sources, bioinks and bioprinting techniques.
Topics: Bioprinting; Cartilage; Humans; Printing, Three-Dimensional; Tissue Engineering; Tissue Scaffolds
PubMed: 32709263
DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2020.06.003 -
Journal of Orthopaedic Research :... Apr 2018The enthesis, or interface between bone and soft tissues such as ligament and tendon, is prone to injury and often does not heal, even post surgical intervention.... (Review)
Review
The enthesis, or interface between bone and soft tissues such as ligament and tendon, is prone to injury and often does not heal, even post surgical intervention. Interface tissue engineering represents an integrative strategy for regenerating the native enthesis by functionally connecting soft and hard tissues and thereby improving clinical outcome. This review focuses on integrative and cell-instructive scaffold designs that target the healing of the two most commonly injured soft tissue-bone junctions: tendon-bone interface (e.g., rotator cuff) and ligament-bone interface (e.g., anterior cruciate ligament). The inherent connectivity between soft and hard tissues is instrumental for musculoskeletal motion and is therefore a key design criterion for soft tissue regeneration. To this end, scaffold design for soft tissue regeneration have progressed from single tissue systems to the emerging focus on pre-integrated and functional composite tissue units. Specifically, a multifaceted, bioinspired approach has been pursued wherein scaffolds are tailored to stimulate relevant cell responses using spatially patterned structural and chemical cues, growth factors, and/or mechanical stimulation. Moreover, current efforts to elucidate the essential scaffold design criteria via strategic biomimicry are emphasized as these will reduce complexity in composite tissue regeneration and ease the related burden for clinical translation. These innovative studies underscore the clinical relevance of engineering connective tissue integration and have broader impact in the formation of complex tissues and total joint regeneration. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1069-1077, 2018.
Topics: Animals; Composite Tissue Allografts; Enthesopathy; Humans; Ligaments; Tendons; Tissue Engineering; Tissue Scaffolds; Wound Healing
PubMed: 29149506
DOI: 10.1002/jor.23810