Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields on Human Tenocyte Cultures From Supraspinatus and Quadriceps Tendons

Denaro V, Ruzzini L, Barnaba SA, Longo UG, Campi S, Maffulli N, Sgambato A: Effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields on human tenocyte cultures from supraspinatus and quadriceps tendons. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2011;90:119Y127. Objective: To investigate the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) on human tenocyte cultures and to assess whether PEMFs could represent a viable therapeutic option in tendon pathologies. Design: Controlled laboratory study in which primary human tenocytes were isolated from healthy supraspinatus and quadriceps tendons and were exposed to the electromagnetic field stimulation. Cell growth and cell cycle were evaluated after 72 hrs, 5 days, and 7 days of continuous PEMF exposure. In quiescent confluent tenocyte culture, an in vitro cut was mechanically produced, and the width of the cell-free zone was measured 12, 24, and 36 hrs after the injury in the presence of PEMF stimulation. Total collagen accumulation was also evaluated after 5, 7, and 14 days of PEMF exposure. Results: Tenocyte growth analysis, cell cycle analysis, and total collagen accumulation did not show statistically significant differences between exposed and control groups. Exposure to PEMF significantly accelerated cut closure 12 and 24 hrs after the injury. Conclusions: PEMFs comparable with the ones used for the management of pseudoarthrosis stimulate closure of an in vitro laceration of a tenocyte monolayer. Our results provide the preliminary in vitro work and the basis to support the study of the in vivo effects of PEMFs on tendinopathies.