Effect of Mechanical Stimulation on the Biomechanics of Stem Cell: Collagen Sponge Constructs for Patellar Tendon Repair

Tendons (rotator cuff, Achilles and patellar tendons) are among the most commonly injured soft tissues [1]. Many techniques for repair/reconstruction have been attempted (e.g. sutures, resorbable biomaterials, autografts, and allografts) with varying success. A tissue engineered repair using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is and attractive option [2–4] but the stiffness and strength of currently available constructs are insufficient for clinical use [6].