An efficient combination of a CPA loading protocol, metal container, and storage method for successful articular cartilage vitrification.

Successful cryopreservation of articular cartilage (AC) depends on a number of variables, including heat transfer, sample packaging for cryogenic storage, cryoprotectant agent (CPA) concentration (toxicity), and CPA permeation into AC. In the first experiment of the present study, we used a combination of our established vitrification protocol (430-min multi-step loading Protocol 8) and the metal Ovarian Tissue Cryosystem (OTC) as a closed vitrification-storage-rewarming container to vitrify 7-mm diameter porcine osteochondral dowels with 2 methods of storage (storage in the OTC with or without a surrounding vitrification solution). In the second experiment, in an attempt to introduce a more reproducible and safe vitrification protocol, we employed our successful Protocol 8 with the OTC as the CPA loading container and a cryobag as the storage container (with or without surrounding vitrification solution).

The Effect of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on Temporomandibular Joint Arthritis in Juvenile Rats.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that can affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and lower jaw growth. Better treatment options are needed, so this study investigated the effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on TMJ arthritis. Seventy-two 3-week-old male Wistar rats were microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) scanned and divided into eight groups ( = 9).

Development and validation of a novel ankle joint musculoskeletal model.

An improved understanding of contact mechanics in the ankle joint is paramount for implant design and ankle disorder treatment. However, existing models generally simplify the ankle joint as a revolute joint that cannot predict contact characteristics. The current study aimed to develop a novel musculoskeletal ankle joint model that can predict contact in the ankle joint, together with muscle and joint reaction forces.

Comparison of wear on articular cartilage by titanium alloy, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, and carbon fibre reinforced polyether-ether-ketone: A pilot study.

Artificial implant materials may articulate against native articular cartilage in certain clinical scenarios and the selection of an implant material that results in the least wear on articular cartilage is preferred to maintain normal joint architecture and function. This project compared the wear on porcine femoral condyles induced by articulation against porcine patellae, titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V), ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), and carbon fibre reinforced polyether-ether-ketone (CFR-PEEK) through an ex vivo experimental setup. A sinusoidal compressive load of 30-160 N, representing an approximate joint pressure of 0.

Design of a lightweight universal talus implant using topology optimization.

Total talus replacement is a promising alternative treatment for talus fractures complicated by avascular necrosis and collapse. This surgical option replaces the human talus bone with a customized talus implant and can maintain ankle joint functionality compared to traditional treatment (e.g.