An Appropriate Cast for the Rabbit Achilles tendon Full Transection Pre-Clinical Model - Abstract
Two major problems might occur after a tendon rupture. On the one hand side, the (fibrotic) scar tissue may lead to re-ruptures due to inferior mechanical
properties. On the other hand, adhesion formation may occur between the healing tendon and the surrounding tissue, ending up in a reduced range of motion.
In order to study improvement of tendon rupture repair by novel methods, we have established a full transection rabbit Achilles tendon model in the past,
where the two tendon stumps have been sutured together. To prevent such sutured tendons from immediate re-rupture after the operation, a cast was used to
immobilize the tendon in a fully relaxed position, i.e. with an angle at the ankle of 180 °. The method of how such a cast has to be applied so the rabbits feel
comfortable, do not bite the cast material and still the healing process is not compromised, has been iteratively improved over the last 15 years.
We provide a detailed description of the casting method for the purpose of immobilizing the rabbits’ hind legs and support a proper Achilles tendon
healing. Particularly, we provide a series of photos that show every step and action needed during casting the hind leg. Such protocols may be interesting for
researchers intending to apply a full transection model in rabbit Achilles tendons in their preclinical studies, and who are looking for a detailed protocol with
hints on what may be particularly important (dos and don’ts) during the application of a cast.