Thermal analysis of the biceps tendon samples obtained from patients underwent reversed shoulder arthroplasty for comminuted proximal humerus fractures

Most commonly occurring in elderly patients, the comminuted 4-part or Neer VI type proximal humerus fractures frequently necessitate complete shoulder replacement. Despite the recent advances in imaging technologies, there is still a need for more information about the degree of joint degeneration and changes of the collagen content of tendons to select the proper implant type. It is known that human long head biceps tendon subjected to synovial inflammation and mechanical wear could result in tear and structural damage. Differential scanning calorimetry has already been demonstrated to be a dependable in the assessment of collagen in degenerative tendon conditions. The purpose of the study was to determine whether variations in thermal parameters detected by DSC are related to the degenerative changes of LHBT samples. LHBT tendons were collected from patients who had reversed shoulder arthroplasty because of trauma. DSC was utilized to measure the thermodynamic changes. Macroscopical, radiological and histological assessment were also performed. Based on the thermal parameters and denaturation curves, LHBT samples collected of patients underwent reversed shoulder arthroplasty due to comminuted proximal humerus fracture have shown minimal or mild degenerative injuries. These data were supported by preoperative radiological examination and histological analysis. The authors suggest that DSC could be a useful investigative tool in the clinical evaluation of tendon injuries.

Automated summary

This study aims to evaluate the degeneration of tendons by detecting thermal parameter changes in LHBT samples using DSC. LHBT tendons were collected and evaluated macroscopically, radiologically, and histologically, and it was found that LHBT samples from patients who underwent reversed shoulder arthroplasty had minimal or mild degeneration. Based on preoperative examination and analysis, the authors suggest that DSC could be an important tool for evaluating tendon injuries.