Consequences of Progressive Full-Thickness Focal Chondral Defects Involving the Medial and Lateral Femoral Condyles After Meniscectomy: A Biomechanical Study Using a Goat Model.

Background: Full-thickness chondral defects alter tibiofemoral joint homeostasis and, if left untreated, have the potential to progress to osteoarthritis.

Purpose: To assess the effects of isolated and dual full-thickness chondral defect size and location on the biomechanical properties of the lateral femoral condyle (LFC) and medial femoral condyle (MFC) during dynamic knee flexion in goat knees without menisci.

Methods: In 12 goat knees, we created progressively increasing full-thickness circular chondral defects (3-, 5-, and 7.