The use of 5‐fluorouracil in the prevention of tendon adhesions: A systematic review

Background This systematic review aims to study the effectiveness of 5‐fluorouracil (5FU) in the reduction of tendon adhesions postsurgical repair. Method A systematic review was performed involving four databases, Cochrane, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase, looking for evidence of at least Level I or Level II (according to NHMRC) in the use of 5FU in tendon repairs in human or animal studies. Results Across the four databases 546 articles were identified. Of these 12 were identified as relevant, with a further two being excluded after in depth review. Conclusions Nine of the 10 studies showed that 5FU was effective at reducing tendon adhesions in their respective animal studies. One of the 10 studies showed no significant change compared to the control group.