Healing and preventing scarring after hand flexor tendon injury
Flexor tendon intrinsic healing and intervention strategy development
['FUNDING_R01'] · MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER · NIH-11137576
This project is trying ways to help people with hand flexor tendon injuries heal from the inside so they keep better finger motion and avoid sticky scar tissue.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137576 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
After a flexor tendon injury, scar tissue and adhesions often limit finger motion even after surgery. Researchers are studying how the tendon’s own cells and blood supply (including the flexor vinculum and epitenon cells) support intrinsic healing and how these elements are damaged by injury. In lab and animal models they will test strategies that boost intrinsic healing and block external scarring to preserve motion. The findings are meant to guide new treatments that could be offered to patients in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with recent hand flexor tendon injuries or those preparing for surgical repair would be the most likely candidates for related treatments or future trials.
Not a fit: People without flexor tendon injuries or those with long-standing severe scarring beyond repair are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that reduce adhesions, improve finger motion, and lower the need for repeat surgeries.
How similar studies have performed: Animal and laboratory studies have shown promise for enhancing intrinsic tendon healing and reducing adhesions, but widely adopted clinical solutions are not yet established.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHAO, CHUNFENG — MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: ZHAO, CHUNFENG
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.