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Morphometric and Cellular Evaluation of Delaminated Cartilage From the Acetabulum
Sebastian Gebhardt1, Janosch Schoon1, Emely Bortel2
1Center for Orthopaedics, Trauma Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine
|July 23, 2026
Summary
Delaminated acetabular cartilage flaps show altered morphology but maintain chondrocyte viability and outgrowth potential for minced cartilage implantation. Redifferentiation requires TGF-β1 supplementation, suggesting suitability for regenerative therapies.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cartilage Repair
Background:
- Delaminated acetabular cartilage flaps correlate with poor outcomes in femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) arthroscopic treatment.
- Minced cartilage implantation shows promise for these cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate chondrocytes from delaminated acetabular cartilage for minced cartilage implantation suitability.
- To compare morphology, outgrowth, and functionality against control chondrocytes.
Main Methods:
- Chondrocytes isolated from delaminated acetabular flaps and controls.
- Synchrotron radiation microcomputed tomography (SR-µCT) and histology performed.
- In vitro assessment of cell proliferation, metabolic activity, and redifferentiation in 3D cultures.
Main Results:
- Delaminated cartilage showed increased lacunae number and reduced diameter, with necrotic areas.
- Chondrocyte outgrowth, metabolic activity, and proliferation were comparable to controls.
- Redifferentiation required TGF-β1 supplementation, with lower initial proteoglycan content.
Conclusions:
- Delaminated acetabular cartilage has altered morphology but viable chondrocytes.
- Chondrocytes exhibit comparable outgrowth potential to controls.
- TGF-β1 is crucial for redifferentiation, indicating potential for minced cartilage grafts.
