Surgical osteochondral defect repair in the horse-a matter of form or function?

Focal cartilaginous and osteochondral lesions can have traumatic or chondropathic degenerative origin. The fibrocartilaginous repair tissue that forms naturally, eventually undergoes fibrillation and degeneration leading to further disruption of joint homeostasis. Both types of lesion will therefore eventually lead to activity-related pain, swelling and decreased mobility and will frequently progress to osteoarthritis. Most attempts at realising cartilage regeneration have so far resulted in cartilage repair (and not regeneration). The aim of this article was to review experimental research on surgical cartilage restoration techniques performed so far in equine models. Currently available surgical options for treatment of osteochondral lesions in the horse are summarised. The experimental validity of equine experimental models is addressed and finally possible avenues for further research are discussed.