[A new model of experimental arthrosis: contusion of the cartilage. Experimental and clinical study]

The effects of a single contusion without surface disruption and without fracture of the patella were studied in 40 rabbits. Macroscopic observation as well as light and electromicroscopy revealed lesions comparable to those observed in patients with chondromalacia of the patella and arthrosis. Three successive stages can be distinguished: a degeneration of the chondrocytes, a temporary proliferative reaction and an extension of the degenerative lesions resulting in an arthrosis. This is therefore a new model of chondromalacia and experimental arthrosis which is comparable in every respect to what is observed in human traumatology.