Does Immobilization After Radiofrequency-Induced Shrinkage Influence the Biomechanical Properties of Collagenous Tissue?

Background: Despite widespread use of radiofrequency-induced shrinkage of collagenous tissue, there have been no animal studies on the effects of postoperative immobilization on the biomechanical behavior of shrunken tissue.

Purpose: To examine the role of postoperative immobilization after radiofrequency-induced shrinkage, with special emphasis on the biomechanical properties of shrunken collagenous tissue.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: One patellar tendon of 66 New Zealand White rabbits was shrunk. Six rabbits were sacrificed immediately after surgery. Twenty rabbits were not immobilized, twenty were immobilized for 3 weeks, and twenty were immobilized for 6 weeks. The biomechanical parameters failure strength, stiffness, and relaxation were tested.

Results: Nine weeks after surgery, biomechanical parameters were still low compared to control tendons. Shrunken tendons did not reach levels of normal tissue at any time after surgery, regardless of whether the animals had been immobilized. According to time-related development, all biomechanical parameters had the lowest levels 3 weeks after surgery. Immobilized tendons demonstrated a better and faster recovery than nonimmobilized tendons compared to the immediate postoperative level.

Conclusion: Postoperative immobilization supports recovery of biomechanical properties after shrinkage. Despite immobilization, biomechanical properties of shrunken tissue did not completely reach levels of normal tissue.

Clinical Relevance: Careful rehabilitation is imperative after radiofrequency-induced shrinkage. This animal model supports an immobilization period of at least 6 weeks after surgery.