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The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (American) 85:40-44 (2003)
© 2003 The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Inc.

Scientific Article

What Type of Cartilage Repair Are We Attempting to Attain?

A. Robin Poole, PhD, DSc

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.


   Introduction
 
Articular cartilage allows active articulation of diarthrodial joints. This is made possible by a unique set of properties afforded by a very specialized macromolecular organization of an extensive extracellular matrix that is secreted by chondrocytes. Cells within the superficial layer of the cartilage secrete a special lubricant that, together with hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid, creates an almost frictionless articulation. Articular cartilage is integrated with subchondral bone, the interface of which is partly calcified. Peripherally, cartilage gives way to the synovium, which not only lubricates the joint but also maintains an aseptic environment (cartilage is extremely sensitive to proteolysis induced by contaminant bacteria).

With articular cartilage as an interface with subchondral bone, the forces of articulation, consequent upon skeletal movement, are carefully dissipated, thereby protecting the underlying bone from traumatic damage and abnormal excessive loading, which can create pathological changes such as sclerosis.

Thus, articular cartilage plays an essential . . . [Full Text of this Article]


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