Joint Meniscus Research Articles

Thickness and width of the menisci of adult knee joint: a descriptive cross-sectional observational study in cadavers.

The goal was to determine the thickness and width of the knee joint meniscus at their different regions. The objective was to compare the dimensions at these regions and over the right- and left-sided specimens. The present study included 50 adult cadaveric knee joints, and 100 menisci (50 medial menisci and 50 lateral menisci) were studied. The meniscus was distributed into anterior, middle and posterior parts. Thickness and width at the mid-point of these three parts were determined by using the Vernier caliper. The breadth of the medial meniscus was 8.38 ± 1.64 mm, 7.68 ± 1.92 mm and 13.93 ± 2.69 mm at the anterior, middle and posterior one-third regions. Same measurements for the lateral menisci at these regions were 9.84 ± 1.78 mm, 8.82 ± 2.01 mm and 10.18 ± 2.23 mm, respectively. The thickness of the medial meniscus was 4.49 ± 0.78 mm, 4.07 ± 0.81 mm and 4.79 ± 0.93 mm at these regions. The lateral meniscus thickness was 3.82 ± 0.69 mm, 4.43 ± 0.98 mm and 4.36 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. It is believed that this data is enlightening to the arthroscopic surgeon during the meniscus transplantation either by using synthetic material or allograft as the proper sizing of the meniscus is important to prevent complications due to inaccurate sizing.

A New Approach to Arthroscopic Stitching of the Knee Joint Meniscus: A Mathematical Justification.

This article presents a mathematical justification for a new approach to arthroscopic stitching of the knee joint meniscus, based on a 3D computer model of the meniscus developed using the COMPASS-3D (APMFEM) program and AutodeskInventorPRO. The research with the patent RK No. 35413 dated 10.12.2021, titled "Method of arthroscopic stitching of the meniscus of the knee joint" builds upon the work of Yu.V. Labunsky. Mathematical analysis was performed to compare two methods of stitching the meniscus: the new oblique-vertical stitch and the classical vertical stitch. The contact area of the meniscus tissues in the area of the rupture was measured for both stitching methods. The findings demonstrate that the new oblique-vertical stitch offers a 1.5 times larger contact area of the meniscus tissues in the area of the rupture, compared to the classical vertical stitch. Additionally, the new method provides a more significant grip on the radial and circular fibers of the meniscus, surpassing the capabilities of the classic seam. The results of this study can be utilized to develop practical recommendations for traumatologists regarding arthroscopic stitching of the meniscus in the knee joint. The new approach, supported by mathematical analysis and a 3D computer model, offers improved outcomes in terms of contact area and grip on the meniscus fibers, potentially leading to enhanced surgical techniques and patient outcomes.

Thickness and width of the menisci of adult knee joint: a descriptive cross-sectional observational study in cadavers

Background: The goal was to determine the thickness and width of the knee joint meniscus at their different regions. The objective was to compare the dimensions at these regions and over the right- and left-sided specimens. Methods: The present study included 50 adult cadaveric knee joints, and 100 menisci (50 medial menisci and 50 lateral menisci) were studied. The meniscus was distributed into anterior, middle and posterior parts. Thickness and width at the mid-point of these three parts were determined by using the Vernier caliper. Results: The breadth of the medial meniscus was 8.38 ± 1.64 mm, 7.68 ± 1.92 mm and 13.93 ± 2.69 mm at the anterior, middle and posterior one-third regions. Same measurements for the lateral menisci at these regions were 9.84 ± 1.78 mm, 8.82 ± 2.01 mm and 10.18 ± 2.23 mm, respectively. The thickness of the medial meniscus was 4.49 ± 0.78 mm, 4.07 ± 0.81 mm and 4.79 ± 0.93 mm at these regions. The lateral meniscus thickness was 3.82 ± 0.69 mm, 4.43 ± 0.98 mm and 4.36 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. Conclusion: It is believed that this data is enlightening to the arthroscopic surgeon during the meniscus transplantation either by using synthetic material or allograft as the proper sizing of the meniscus is important to prevent complications due to inaccurate sizing.

Decellularized small intestine submucosa device for temporomandibular joint meniscus repair: Acute timepoint safety study.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Meniscus removal is an option for the patient to regain full range of motion if the disc is irreversibly damaged or unable to be reduced. However, this procedure leaves the joint vulnerable to condylar remodeling and degeneration. We have shown that extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds remodel into a tissue with near native TMJ meniscus in previous studies. The next step towards clinical translation is to manufacture the ECM scaffold as a device under good manufacturing practices (GMP) and test it in a pre-clinical animal study under good laboratory practices (GLP). The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the in-vivo histopathological response to a Prototype GMP manufactured device made of decellularized porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS), by observing for signs of surrounding tissue reaction to the device that are indicative of an adverse host response in comparison to an empty control at 21 days post-surgical implantation in a canine TMJ meniscus removal and implant model in a GLP setting. The conclusive findings were that the ECM device is safe for placement in the TMJ. After 21 days post implantation, histology of tissue surrounding the device and draining lymph nodes showed that the Prototype GMP device had no negative effects compared to the empty site (as evaluated by the board-certified veterinary pathologist). Furthermore, there was a lack of negative findings for clinical pathology (hematology and clinical chemistry), mortality, and body weight/weight change. Future studies will go to one year after implantation to show that the remodel device remains as a viable tissue with near native mechanical properties.

Transplantation of Parathyroid Hormone–Treated Achilles Tendon Promotes Meniscal Regeneration in a Rat Meniscal Defect Model

Background: Autologous tendon grafts are used for meniscal reconstruction of surgically removed knee joint meniscus. However, as meniscal reconstruction cannot prevent the progression of cartilage degeneration, additional procedures that confer meniscus-like histological properties to the transplanted tendon are required for improved outcomes. Hypotheses: Parathyroid hormone (PTH)(1-34) induces cartilage formation in the rat tendon, and transplantation of PTH-treated tendon promotes meniscal regeneration. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Rat Achilles tendon–derived cells were cultured with or without PTH for 28 days and stained with Alcian blue to determine chondrogenic differentiation. After 14 and 28 days of incubation, gene expression was assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. In an in vivo study, rat Achilles tendon was injected with PTH and then transplanted onto a medial meniscal defect. Macroscopic and histological assessments of the regenerated meniscus and of cartilage degeneration in the tibial plateau were performed at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. Results: In vitro, PTH-treated cells showed better staining with Alcian blue than the control (normal medium) group. PTH1R, Col2a1, Sox9, and RUNX2 were significantly upregulated in PTH-treated cells (P < .05). Macroscopically, the in vivo results revealed more prominent meniscal coverage and lesser progression of articular cartilage degeneration in the PTH group than in the phosphate-buffered saline–injected group. Histologically, toluidine blue staining revealed metachromasia in the PTH-injected tissue at 4 and 8 weeks. The PTH-treated regenerated meniscus showed positive immunostaining for type II collagen in the area exhibiting metachromasia. Moreover, PTH-treated tendon had an enhanced histological score compared with the untreated group at 4 and 8 weeks (P < .05). Conclusion: PTH(1-34) induced cartilage formation in the rat tendon. Transplantation of PTH(1-34)–treated Achilles tendon in a rat meniscal defect model induced meniscal regeneration and preserved knee articular cartilage. Macroscopically, PTH groups showed a greater coverage of the regenerated meniscus. Histologically, the regenerated meniscus had higher cartilaginous matrix content in rats transplanted with PTH-treated tendons. PTH(1-34) stimulated tendon-derived cells to promote chondrogenic differentiation. Clinical Relevance: Meniscal transplantation using PTH-injected autologous tendon grafts might promote meniscal regeneration and prevent progression of cartilage degeneration by stimulating chondrogenic differentiation of tendon-derived cells.

Examination of the menisci in the knee joints. D-r P. Miiller (Zntralbl. F. Chir., 1933, no. 35)

Examination of the menisci in the knee joints. Dr. P. Miiller (Zntralbl. F. Chir., 1933, no. 35) observed the annunciation of menisci in 1% of cases with the simultaneous existence of artritis deformans in patients.

Histological Features of Osteoarthritis in a State of Decompensation

Degenerative pathology of the musculoskeletal system is one of the main reasons for decreased mobility in patients of the older age group. Increasing the life expectancy leads to predominance non-epidemic pathology in all developed countries. Therefore, degenerative diseases of musculoskeletal system have not only medical significance but also social significance. Objective is studying the morphological features of synovial environment of the decompensated osteoarthritic (OA) knee joint. Structural features of subchondral bone, hyaline cartilage of the femur and tibia, the articular capsule, menisci and ligamentous apparatus of the knee joint were studied in 64 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty at the Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics Bashkirian State Medical University in the period from 2015 to 2020. Material selection, preparation of histological samples, staining with hematoxylin-eosin, microscopy was performed. Adaptive signs of articular cartilage of the femoral condyles manifest in the form of cartilage tissue rearrangement, which are most pronounced in the central zone of the cartilage. At the same time, the phenomena of decompensation and significant areas of destruction are noted. Also, the subchondral bone was replaced with connective tissue with subsequent sclerosis. This sclerosis subsequently led to the decompensation of structures of the hyaline cartilage in the deep and middle zones. Destructive and dystrophic processes were noted in the knee joint menisci. Articular cartilage was replaced with granulation tissue with subsequent invasion of blood vessels. Cruciate ligaments in patients with OA show signs of adaptation due to expansion of endothenonium layers between bundles of collagen fibers and an increase in the diameter of blood vessels.

Biomechanical Performance of Menisci under Cyclic Loads

The meniscus, composed of fibrocartilage, is a very important part of the human knee joint that behaves like a buffer. Located in the middle of the femoral condyles and the tibial plateau, it is a necessary structure to maintain normal biomechanical properties of the knee. Whether walking or exercising, the meniscus plays a vital role to protect the articular surface of both the femoral condyles and the tibial plateau by absorbing the conveying shock from body weight. However, modern people often suffer from irreversible degeneration of joint tissue due to exercise-induced harm or aging. Therefore, understanding its dynamic characteristics will help to learn more about the actual state of motion and to avoid unnecessary injury. This study uses reverse engineering equipment, a 3D optical scanner, and a plastic teaching human body model to build the geometry of knee joint meniscus. Then, the finite element method (FEM) is employed to obtain the dynamic characteristics of the meniscus. The results show the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and fatigue life analysis of meniscus, with real human material parameters. The achieved results can be applied to do subsequent knee dynamic simulation analysis, to reduce the knee joint and lower external impacts, and to manufacture artificial meniscus through tissue engineering.

Використання аутомезоконцентрату тромбоцитів у пацієнтів з патологією опорно-рухового апарату

The platelet automesoconcentrate is a complex biotechnological product based on autologous growth factors and oligopeptides obtained from the patient's blood platelets. The purpose of this study was evaluation of our own first treatment results and improvement of the quality of life in patients with pathology of the musculoskeletal system after treatment with platelet automesoconcentrate. Material and methods. We analyzed the results of 76 patients (24 patients with knee osteoarthritis, 21 patients with epicondylitis of the elbow joint and 31 patients with the knee joint meniscal lesions Stoller I-IIb), who were treated in the clinic of the State Institution "Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics" of Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine and in the “Virtus” clinic. The quantitative and qualitative evaluation of pain was performed by visual analog scale score. The evaluation of dysfunction and quality of life were performed by the standardized Lysholm and Oxford scales according to the affected segment and pathology. Results and discussion. The positive dynamics of the knee joint functional ability was observed in cases of the 1 and 2 osteoarthrosis grades by 43.6% and 62.1% (in a year). In patients with osteoarthrosis grade 3, a slight improvement was observed in a short-term period, but after 6 months received results gradually decrease and after a year, they were only 4.3% compared with the baseline level (Oxford). The positive dynamics of the elbow joint functional ability for 3 months was 75%. In general, after 6 months, full recovery of the elbow joint function was observed in 15 patients, restrictions at high physical exertion remained in 6 patients. In case of the knee joint menisci lesion, an increase in functional activity was observed in 23 cases by more than 58.8% (Oxford) and increased mean values from 70 (before treatment) to 82 points (Lysholm). Conclusion. The study showed advantages of the platelets automesoconcentrate in patients with osteoarthrosis and the knee meniscal lesions, elbow joint epicondylitis, in clinically difficult cases with the ineffectiveness of previous treatment

Application and research of adjuvant therapy in sports injury rehabilitation based on nano-biomaterials

The use of biomedical materials to prepare tissue engineering scaffold technology to construct functional auxiliary materials is of great significance in the prevention and treatment of sports injury complications. In this study, the most common sports injury, that is, the knee meniscus injury, is the main body of the study. Chitosan (CS) and nano silk fibroin (SFP) were used to prepare CS-SFP multi-microchannel catheter scaffold (CS-SFP MMC) to enhance its mechanical properties. The characterisation, porosity, mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the scaffold material were evaluated. The results showed that the scaffold has good biocompatibility, has a suitable pore size and porosity, and provides a sufficient environment for the adhesion and growth of bone cells. At the same time, histological research was performed by constructing a rat knee meniscus injury model. Experiments showed that the healing results of CS-SFP MMC stent in treating knee joint meniscus injury in rats are better than those in control group. This indicated that the CS-SFP MMC stent has an auxiliary effect on meniscus damage repair. Therefore, CS-SFP MMC stent is an ideal bone tissue engineering scaffold material, which has the prospect of providing a new therapeutic material for clinical treatment of bone defects.

ACL Injuries (Care of the Young Athlete)

Patient Education| 2021 ACL Injuries (Care of the Young Athlete) Views Icon Views Article contents Figures & tables Video Audio Supplementary Data Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Tools Icon Tools Get Permissions Cite Icon Cite Search Site Citation ACL Injuries (Care of the Young Athlete). Pediatric Patient Education 2021; 10.1542/peo_document268 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search nav search search input Search input auto suggest search filter All AAP SitesAll PublicationsPediatric Patient Education Search Advanced Search Subjects: Care of the Young Athlete Topics: anterior cruciate ligament, anterior cruciate ligament injuries, anterior cruciate ligament rupture, athlete, jumping, knee joint, play behavior, sports, joint meniscus The ACL is the ligament that connects the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) inside the knee joint. Ligaments are tough, non-stretchable fibers that hold bones together. The ACL, along with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and menisci (cartilages), helps keep the knee stable and helps protect the knee from shifting, rotating, and hyperextending during running, jumping, or landing. ACL tears can occur from forceful contact to the front or outer part of the knee or from the knee twisting or hyperextending. An ACL tear is usually associated with sudden knee pain and a sense of the knee giving way. Commonly, those with an ACL tear feel a “pop” in the knee when they are injured. Swelling often occurs within 24 hours. While there may be pain, restricted motion, and a feeling of looseness in the knee,... Copyright © 20102010American Academy of Pediatrics You do not currently have access to this content.

Echinacoside Upregulates Sirt1 to Suppress Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Inhibit Extracellular Matrix Degradation In Vitro and Ameliorates Osteoarthritis In Vivo.

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive illness that destroys cartilage. Oxidative stress is a major contributor of OA, while endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is the key cellular damage under oxidative stress in chondrocytes. Echinacoside (ECH) is the main extract and active substance of Cistanche, with potent antioxidative stress (OS) properties, and currently under clinical trials in China. However, its function in OA is yet to be determined. Purpose We aimed to explore the specific role of ECH in the occurrence and development of OA and its underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro. Methods After the mice were anesthetized, the bilateral medial knee joint meniscus resection was performed to establish the DMM model. TBHP was used to induce oxidative stress to establish the OA model in chondrocytes in vitro. Western blot and RT-PCR were used to evaluate the level of ER stress-related biomarkers such as p-PERK/PERK, GRP78, ATF4, p-eIF2α/eIF2α, and CHOP and apoptosis-related proteins such as BAX, Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase-3. Meanwhile, we used SO staining, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemical staining to evaluate the pharmacological effects of ECH in mice in vivo. Results We demonstrated the effectiveness of ECH in suppressing ER stress and restoring ECM metabolism in vitro. In particular, ECH was shown to suppress tert-Butyl hydroperoxide- (TBHP-) induced OS and subsequently lower the levels of p-PERK/PERK, GRP78, ATF4, p-eIF2α/eIF2α, and CHOP in vitro. Simultaneously, ECH reduced MMP13 and ADAMTS5 levels and promoted Aggrecan and Collagen II levels, suggesting ECM degradation suppression. Moreover, we showed that ECH mediates its cellular effects via upregulation of Sirt1. Lastly, we confirmed that ECH can protect against OA in mouse OA models. Conclusion In summary, our findings indicate that ECH can inhibit ER stress and ECM degradation by upregulating Sirt1 in mouse chondrocytes treated with TBHP. It can also prevent OA development in vivo.

Anatomical Distribution of Ochronotic Pigment in Alkaptonuric Mice is Associated with Calcified Cartilage Chondrocytes at Osteochondral Interfaces

Alkaptonuria (AKU) is characterised by increased circulating homogentisic acid and deposition of ochronotic pigment in collagen-rich connective tissues (ochronosis), stiffening the tissue. This process over many years leads to a painful and severe osteoarthropathy, particularly affecting the cartilage of the spine and large weight bearing joints. Evidence in human AKU tissue suggests that pigment binds to collagen. The exposed collagen hypothesis suggests that collagen is initially protected from ochronosis, and that ageing and mechanical loading causes loss of protective molecules, allowing pigment binding. Schmorl’s staining has previously demonstrated knee joint ochronosis in AKU mice. This study documents more comprehensively the anatomical distribution of ochronosis in two AKU mouse models (BALB/c Hgd−/−, Hgd tm1a−/−), using Schmorl’s staining. Progression of knee joint pigmentation with age in the two AKU mouse models was comparable. Within the knee, hip, shoulder, elbow and wrist joints, pigmentation was associated with chondrons of calcified cartilage. Pigmented chondrons were identified in calcified endplates of intervertebral discs and the calcified knee joint meniscus, suggesting that calcified tissues are more susceptible to pigmentation. There were significantly more pigmented chondrons in lumbar versus tail intervertebral disc endplates (p = 0.002) and clusters of pigmented chondrons were observed at the insertions of ligaments and tendons. These observations suggest that loading/strain may be associated with increased pigmentation but needs further experimental investigation. The calcified cartilage may be the first joint tissue to acquire matrix damage, most likely to collagen, through normal ageing and physiological loading, as it is the first to become susceptible to pigmentation.

Electron Microscopy and Microanalysis of Ovis Aries Knee Joint Meniscus: Does it Have Any Similarity with Human Meniscus?

Background: Meniscus plays a pivotal role in normal function of knee joint and is exposed to heavy load of pressure and trauma. The aim in this study is to investigate ultrastructure of medial and lateral meniscus of Ovis aries, in addition to comparing the findings with human meniscal structure. Methods: 14 samples of freshly-excised meniscus of ovis aries were provided. After conventional preparation, the samples were studied via electron microscopy (EM) and its elements were microanalyzed. Results: In the macroscopic evaluation, the meniscus surface was completely smooth, but in the microscopic observation, longitudinal ridges and grooves were observed. In addition, several types of cells that were different morphologically and bundles of collagen fibers were observed. The major direction of collagen fibers was circumferentially, but there were radial fibers as well. In the microanalysis of the ovis aris meniscus, the following elements were present: sodium, carbon, and oxygen, with sodium having the highest percentage among the elements. In medial meniscus of the samples, a small amount of calcium was detected. Conclusion: By comparing the present findings with those of other studies, many similarities were observed between ultrastructure of ovis aries and human knee meniscus. The compatibility in the ultrastructures will imply the possibility of application of this specimen for xenograft meniscal transplant procedure.

Demographics and Epidemiology of Discoid Menisci of the Knee: Analysis of a Large Regional Insurance Database.

Background:A discoid meniscus is a morphological variant of normal knee joint meniscus shape and ultrastructure that can lead to traumatic tearing of this tissue and early joint osteoarthritis.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of discoid menisci in a large, ethnically diverse regional cohort and to evaluate possible risk factors. The hypothesis was that there would be no difference in the epidemiological distribution of discoid menisci based on ethnicity or sex.Study Design:Descriptive epidemiology study.Methods:The study population was from a regional, integrated health care system cohort from Kaiser Permanente of Southern California that, as of 2016, included more than 4.5 million patients. Patient demographics included age, sex, and ethnicity within this cohort. Potential risk factors analyzed included age, sex, ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI). Unique characteristics of a discoid meniscus were analyzed, including a symptomatic versus asymptomatic meniscus, location of meniscal tear and type of meniscus, and frequency of meniscal surgical treatment.Results:A total of 223 patients with a confirmed discoid meniscus were identified, yielding an overall prevalence rate of 4.88 per 100,000 patients. Those identifying as Black had the lowest prevalence (2.68/100,000), while Hispanic ethnicity had the highest (6.01/100,000). However, there was no significant difference with regard to ethnicity (P = .283), nor any significant difference between sexes. BMI did not significantly influence the rate of discoid menisci (P = .504). A majority (77.5%) of patients were symptomatic, while 22.5% of patients with discoid menisci were asymptomatic and discovered incidentally. Symptomatic discoid menisci were more likely to be operated on compared with asymptomatic discoid menisci (71% vs 14%, respectively; P = .001; odds ratio, 14.8 [95% CI, 5.8-37.2]). Horizontal and bucket-handle tears were the more common tear types. Of the discoid menisci in this cohort, 55.6% underwent surgery, with 95.2% undergoing reported saucerization.Conclusion:In this very diverse population-based cohort of patients, there did not seem to be a significant predilection of discoid menisci with regard to ethnicity. Neither sex nor BMI significantly influenced the rate of discoid menisci. More than three-quarters of those with a diagnosed discoid meniscus were symptomatic. Of the tears that occurred with discoid menisci, horizontal and bucket-handle tears made up the largest proportion.

MORPHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN KNEE JOIN IN MODELED OSTEOARTHROSIS AND APPLICATION OF AUTOLOGICAL BONE MARROW ASPIRATE

Background. Treatment of knee join osteoarthritis is one of challenging medico-social issues. Sometimes the conservative treatment fails to produce therapeutic effect, therefore, the use of cellular technologies in the treatment for progressive degenerative changes of the knee joint has been proposed. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of bone marrow aspirate on the structural changes in the knee joint in modelled osteoarthritis. Materials and methods. The experimental osteoarthritis was simulated in rabbits. Autologous bone marrow aspirate was injected into the knee cavity in 1 month after surgery, and then in 2, 5 months the structural changes of the capsule, meniscus, proximal epiphysis of the tibia were studied. Results. There were the following structural changes in the capsule of the knee joint: stratification of structural elements and reduction of the cell density of the capsule, cell necrosis of the inner surface of the capsule. The defect area of the epiphyseal cartilage was lacking in cartilage, and the peripheral cartilage thickness was decreased by 30, 4% (p&lt;0,05); subchondral bone density made up an average 55,9% compared with the control. In the group with bone marrow aspirate, the density of fibroblasts in the joint capsule increased and the surface of the meniscus was partially preserved; the density of subchondral bone tissue was significantly higher by 79,5% (p&lt;0.05) compared with the control. Structural changes in osteoarthritis include progressive dystrophic changes of the joint surface, subchondral bone, meniscus, and joint capsule. The use of autologous bone marrow aspirate can prevent damage to the subchondral bone, meniscus and joint capsule and promote reticular tissue formation and induction of angiogenesis. The morphological changes of bone marrow through progressive osteoarthritis and its renovation after local application of autological bone marrow aspirate concentrate are promising approaches for the further studies.

Regenerative medicine approaches in large animal models for the temporomandibular joint meniscus

Regenerative medicine approaches in large animal models for the temporomandibular joint meniscus

Investigation of protein content of synovial fluids with DSC in different arthritides

In the case of joint diseases, as a result of the process induced by the pathophysiological factors, the small articular structures that have pilled result in a qualitative and quantitative modification of the composition of the synovial fluid (SF). The analysis of this fluid offers a unique opportunity to study the joint diseases. In our study, 28 cases of acute knee joint meniscus injuries, transient knee joint synovitis, or degenerative knee joint destruction were studied. Following the collection and storage of SF, removed on the basis of the sample collection protocol, they were denatured in a SETARAM Micro DSC-II calorimeter with a scanning rate 0.3 K min−1 in the 20–90 °C temperature range. 4–4 samples from the “normal” SF batch were inoculated by two different strains of bacteria [Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis] with 10−3 colony-forming unit. Thermoanalytical changes of the proteins found in the SF were studied by a SETARAM Micro DSC-II, in the laboratory of the Biophysical Institute. The maximum denaturation temperature of the proteins being in the SF with different severity varied according to the criterion of the radiological scaling of osteoarthritis made by the Kellgren–Lawrence criterion. The decomposition of the scans showed the degree of the damage in case of SF as well as in the inoculated samples. Knowing the denaturing properties of temperature-dependent protein molecules in SF, DSC can be used to design and develop intra-articular lubricant additives that effectively enhance protein stability and contribute to a reduction in joint wear.

Constitutional Features of the Histological Structure of the Human Knee Meniscus

The purpose of the study was to determine some constitutional features of the histological structure of the human knee menisci. Material and methods. Internal and external menisci of both knee joints of 84 corpses of men aged from 32 to 55 years were studied. After a standard fixation of the biological material, meniscus sections were prepared at the level of their anterior and posterior horns, and of the body. Then pre-stained hematoxylin-eosin prepared histological specimens were subjected to a survey microscopy, description and morphometry of the cuts of knee joint meniscus specimens. For the individualizing the revealed features, anthropometric research was carried out with all the investigated objects, followed by self-typing using the W.L.Rees-N.J.Eysenck method. Results. As a result of the study, the presence of age-specific features of the histological structure of the meniscus was established. In addition, it is proved that menisci of knee joints of men of picnic type of constitution, in contrast to representatives of other types of physique, are subject to structural changes in the histological pattern at the level of the hindbust. For men of asthenic type of physique, such changes at the level of the anterior horn of the meniscus are characteristic in comparison with other sites of the meniscus. Conclusion. Traumatologists and sports physicians can use the revealed features of the histological structure of meniscus knee joints in men of different body types at the stages of diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the knee joints, as well as in the development of measures to prevent the development of destructive changes in them. In addition, research data may influence the choice of certain rehabilitation exercises that help strengthen specific areas of the ligamentous apparatus of the knee joints of patients who have damaged menisci.

Finite Element Analysis of Normal Tibiofemoral Joint and Knee Osteoarthritis: a Comparison Study Validated Through Geometrical Measurements

Objectives: A comparison study of normal tibiofemoral joint and knee osteoarthritis is done to analyse the displacement, stress and strain values. Statistical Analysis: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a general type of arthritis in which there is a gradual loss of cartilage from the joints. Global Burden of Disease 2000 estimated that about 10% of the world’s population who are greater than 60 years of age have symptomatic issues that can be attributed to OA. The COPCORD investigations in India for the year 2011 concluded that the rough occurrence of clinically diagnosed knee OA was greater in the urban (5.5%) than the rustic group of people (3.3%). Methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is thought to be an inexorably essential instrument for in vivo investigations of musculoskeletal biomechanics. Magnetic resonance images were obtained for two subjects in the age group of 40-45 years. Three dimensional models of a normal and OA knee joint are obtained using Mimics Research software 17 and FEA is done using ANSYS 14 software to determine displacement, stress and strain values. Findings: Finite Element models are powerful tools to foresee the impacts of various parameters required in knee agony and joint degradation and to give data generally hard to acquire from analyses. The 3D model of normal and OA knee joint further helps to design the prosthesis of knee for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) result includes the stresses and strains induced in the knee articular cartilages and meniscus during single-leg stance. Displacement, stress and strain values for OA knee are higher than the normal knee joint. Hooke’s law of modulus of elasticity is verified in this work. Then finite element model (FEM) is validated through geometrical measurements such as Joint space width, cartilage thickness and meniscus thickness. Improvements: This data can be combined with other analysis and modeling tools, for example, gait analysis and FE modeling to test hypotheses concerning joint function and the impacts of wounds.