The effect of surface active phospholipids on the lubrication of osteoarthritic sheep knee joints: wear

摘要: As a result of wear in the synovial joint, cartilaginous and osseous particles are produced. Previous research has shown that wear-particle shape may be correlated with joint disease status. In addition, phospholipids, present naturally have been implicated as major contributors to lubrication. This study aimed investigate effect surface-active boundary lubricants, on characteristics by application numerical descriptors cartilage particles. Artificially worn, lipid-depleted, sheep knee joints were injected two concentrations phospholipid dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (Lα-DPPC) worn further mechanical rig. Particles harvested from extracted solution ferrography, analyzed field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). After binary processing, particle images numerically for parameters such fractal dimension, factor, convexity, elongation area. The condylar surfaces also viewed their hydrated state an environmental (ESEM). results analysis indicate synthetic Lα-DPPC propylene glycol significant joints. Statistically differences between pre- post-lubricated formfactor found 35 mg/ml fluid. similar trends fluid solutions noted dimension curl. morphology described literature. condyle surface observed was characteristic articular cartilage.