Healing of laser-induced defects of articular cartilage: preliminary studies

The investigators have induced defects to the articular surfaces of knee joints in rabbits with the use of a CO2 laser. Subsequent healing of these defects have been studied and are described. This work has demonstrated healing with formation of fibrocartilage and hyaline cartilage in two of eight cases. Further investigation with improved techniques will be undertaken in order to produce effective healing on a more consistent basis. This article also reviews previous investigation related to the healing of cartilage defects.