Efficacy of intralesional propolis on tendon healing: A study of macroscopic and histological parameters in partial Achilles tendon rupture model in Wistar rats

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of intralesional propolis administration on tendon healing in a partial Achilles tendon rupture model in Wistar rats. Methods: An actual experimental study with a post-test-only control group design was conducted using 27 healthy adult male Wistar rats, evenly divided into three groups: Treatment (intralesional injection of 50% propolis solution), placebo (intralesional injection of normal saline), and control (no additional treatment). Before treatment, we performed a partial Achilles tenotomy in each rat. Macroscopic assessment evaluated tendon healing and adhesion status, while histological evaluation followed the six parameters of the Movin score. Results: Significant improvements were observed in tendon healing ( P = 0.034) and adhesion status ( P = 0.037) among the three groups. Histological analysis demonstrated significant improvements in fiber structure ( P = 0.004), nuclear rounding ( P = 0.027), angiogenesis ( P = 0.003), and cell density ( P = 0.022). No significant differences were found in fiber arrangement ( P = 0.056) or inflammation ( P = 0.127). Conclusion: Intralesional propolis administration significantly promotes tendon healing in a Wistar rat model of partial Achilles tendon rupture. The findings suggest beneficial effects on tendon healing, tissue integrity, and neovascularization, supporting the use of propolis as a potential adjunct in tendon repair.