Two-Year Evaluation of Osteochondral Repair with a Novel Biphasic Graft Saturated in Bone Marrow in an Equine Model:

ObjectiveTo evaluate a biphasic cartilage repair device (CRD) for feasibility of arthroscopic implantation, safety, biocompatibility, and efficacy for long-term repair of large osteochondral defects.MethodsThe CRD was press-fit into defects (10 mm diameter, 10 mm deep) created in the femoral trochlea of 12 horses. In the contralateral limb, 10 mm diameter full-thickness chondral defects were treated with microfracture (MFX). Radiographs were obtained pre- and postoperatively, and at 4, 12, and 24 months. Repeat arthroscopy was performed at 4 and 12 months. Gross assessment, histology, mechanical testing, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed at 24 months.ResultsThe CRD was easily placed arthroscopically. There was no evidence of joint infection, inflammation, or degeneration. CRD-treated defects had significantly more sclerosis compared to MFX early (P = 0.0006), but was not different at 24 months. CRD had better arthroscopic scores at 4 months compared to MFX (P = 0.0069). At 24 months, the...