Nicotine Exposure Via Electronic Cigarettes Significantly Impedes Biomechanical healing Properties of Tendon healing in a Rat Model.

Introduction

This article presents a study examining the impact of nicotine exposure via electronic cigarettes on the biomechanical healing properties of achilles tendon surgical repair in a rat model. The researchers compared the effects of combusted tobacco, nicotine exposure via electronic cigarettes, and a control group.

Key Points

* The study used 54 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, randomized into three groups (combusted tobacco, e-cigarettes, and control).
* Rats were exposed to either combusted tobacco, e-cigarette vapor, or room air for six weeks, with a four-week exposure period prior to surgical intervention.
* Biomechanical testing was performed to determine tensile load to failure and stiffness, while histologic testing was conducted to evaluate tissue healing and collagen formation.
* The study found that rats exposed to e-cigarettes had a significantly lower tensile load to failure compared to the control group (p=.026).
* No significant difference was detected in tensile load to failure between the combusted tobacco and control groups (p=.35) or between the combusted tobacco and e-cigarette groups (p=.23).
* histologic analysis did not reveal any significant differences in collagen formation or tissue healing among the groups.
* The main message of the study is that nicotine exposure via electronic cigarettes significantly impairs the biomechanical healing properties of achilles tendon surgical repair in a rat model, suggesting potential negative effects on tendon healing in human users.

Main Message

The study highlights the potential risks associated with nicotine exposure via electronic cigarettes, particularly in the context of tendon healing. While e-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, this research suggests that they may still have detrimental effects on musculoskeletal healing. healthcare providers should consider these findings when advising patients on the use of e-cigarettes, particularly those recovering from surgical procedures or dealing with tendon injuries.

Kennedy P, Saloky K, Yadavalli a, et al. Nicotine Exposure Via Electronic Cigarettes Significantly Impedes Biomechanical healing Properties of Tendon healing in a Rat Model. arthroscopy : the journal of arthroscopic & related surgery : official publication of the arthroscopy association of North america and the International arthroscopy association. 2021;37(10):3170-3176. doi:10.1016/j.arthro.2021.03.071