Implant strategy affects scaffold stability and integrity in cartilage treatment
Abstract
Purpose
To identify the most appropriate implantation strategy for a novel chondral scaffold in a model simulating the early post-operative phase, in order to optimize the implant procedure and reduce the risk of early failure.
Methods
Eight human cadaveric limbs were strapped to a continuous passive motion device and exposed to extension–flexion cycles (0°–90°). Chondral lesions (1.8 cm diameter) were prepared on condyles, patella and trochlea for the implant of a bi-layer collagen–hydroxyapatite scaffold. The first set-up compared four fixation techniques: press-fit (PF) vs. fibrin glue (FG) vs. pins vs. sutures; the second compared circular and square implants; the third investigated stability in a weight-bearing simulation. The scaffolds were evaluated using semi-quantitative Drobnic and modified Bekkers scores.
Results
FG presented higher total Drobnic and Bekkers scores compared to PF (both p = 0.002), pins (p = 0.013 and 0.001) and sutures (p = 0.001 and < 0.0005). Pins offered better total Drobnic and Bekkers scores than PF in the anterior femoral condyles (p = 0.007 and 0.065), similar to FG. The comparison of round and square implants applied by FG showed worst results for square lesions (Drobnic score p = 0.049, Bekkers score p = 0.037). Finally, load caused worst overall results (Drobnic p = 0.018).
Conclusions
FG improves the fixation of this collagen–HA scaffold regardless of lesion location, improving implant stability while preserving its integrity. Pins represent a suitable option only for lesions of the anterior condyles. Square scaffolds present weak corners, therefore, round implants should be preferred. Finally, partial weight-bearing simulation significantly affected the scaffold. These findings may be useful to improve surgical technique and post-operative management of patients, to optimize the outcome of chondral scaffold implantation.
Publisher URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00167-017-4737-x
DOI: 10.1007/s00167-017-4737-x
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