Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Sambucus nigra on superficial digital flexor tendon repair in rabbit by ultrasonography and histopathology

Abstract

Abstract Background Adult tendon tissue has limited and slow regenerative capacity. Sambucus nigra plant possesses antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory attributes. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of this plant's fruit on superficial digital flexor tendon repair in rabbits (SDFT). Methods Twenty‐five male New Zealand white rabbits weighing 1.5–2 kg were selected, quarantined and randomly divided into four groups of six. By performing a partial left posterior limb tenotomy, differentiating the SDFT and creating multiple scrapes were performed. During 3 consecutive days post‐surgery, the positive control group was injected with 0.5 mg/kg dexamethasone, whereas the treatment groups received extract doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. The negative control group did not receive any medication. Evaluation of sonographic and histopathological parameters was conducted on days 0, 7 and 28 post‐surgeries. Findings were analysed and compared using SPSS22. Results Both treatment groups showed significant differences in echogenicity, and collagen fibre alignment compared to the control and positive control groups, in sonographic evaluation. Histopathological examination revealed fewer inflammatory cells and increased collagen fibre formation in the treatment groups compared to the other two groups. No significant difference in angiogenesis was observed among the groups on days 7 and 28 (p value <0.05). Conclusions The results indicate that the S. nigra fruit extract, by stimulating collagen synthesis and reducing inflammation, effectively accelerates the healing process of injured tendons.

Keywords

• collagen
• dexamethasone
• inflammation
• Sambucus nigra
• tendon