Load measurement accuracy from sensate scaffolds with and without a cartilage surface.

ABSTRACT The use of "sensate" scaffolds covered with tissue-engineered cartilage has emerged as a possible treatment option for focal articular cartilage defects. The ability to monitor joint loading provides several benefits that can be useful in both clinical and research situations. Previous studies have shown that these scaffolds can accurately monitor in vivo joint loading during various activities.

Sensate scaffolds coupled to telemetry can monitor in vivo loading from within a joint over extended periods of time.

Polymer scaffolds have been used as a tool to provide growth and integration of engineered tissue substrates to repair damaged tissues in many organ systems including articular cartilage. Previous work has shown that "sensate" scaffolds, with integrated strain gauges have the potential for use as both a delivery vehicle for engineered cartilage as well as a device that can measure real time, in vivo joint loading. The purpose of this study was to use an implanted subminiature telemetry system to collect in vivo joint loading measurements over an extended period following placement of a "sensate" scaffold.