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Published on: May 21, 2013
Microsphere-based gradient implants for osteochondral regeneration: a long-term study in sheep
Neethu Mohan1,2, Vineet Gupta3, Banu Priya Sridharan3
1Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA.
Background:
The microfracture technique for cartilage repair has limited ability to regenerate hyaline cartilage.
Aim:
The current study made a direct comparison between microfracture and an osteochondral approach with microsphere-based gradient plugs.
Materials & Methods:
The PLGA-based scaffolds had opposing gradients of chondroitin sulfate and β-tricalcium phosphate. A 1-year repair study in sheep was conducted.
Results:
The repair tissues in the microfracture were mostly fibrous and had scattered fissures with degenerative changes. Cartilage regenerated with the gradient plugs had equal or superior mechanical properties; had lacunated cells and stable matrix as in hyaline cartilage.
Conclusion:
This first report of gradient scaffolds in a long-term, large animal, osteochondral defect demonstrated potential for equal or better cartilage repair than microfracture.
