ABSTRACT
Soft tissues form a major component of the musculoskeletal system, and play vital roles in normal skeletal function. Unlike bone, intrinsic soft-tissue healing has a limited potential. Consequently, healed soft tissues have significantly reduced mechanical properties. This often causes problems for patients, when, after severe injuries, bony union takes place but function remains impaired secondary to soft-tissue compromise. In recent times, advances in gene therapy and tissue engineering hold promise for improved soft-tissue healing and regeneration.
