The control of peritendinous adhesions using topical beta-aminopropionitrile base.

The Lindsay chicken foot tendon model was utilized to test the effect of topically applied beta-aminopropionitrile base upon the tensile strength of peritendinous adhesions following tenolysis of a scarified flexor tendon. The agent reduced by one-third the force required to effect tendon gliding and flexion of the joints in the involved digit. The results show that topical beta-aminopropionitrile is effective in the control of peritendinous adhesions and, therefore, achieves sufficient depth of penetration topically to affect the peritendinous location. No adverse effects of the topically applied agent were demonstrated. The principle of topical therapeutics that may have significant benefits to patients with tendon injuries is demonstrated.