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Magnetic resonance imaging is gold standard for noninvasive evaluation of articular cartilage damage and has been also used for monitoring cartilage repair. The aim of this study was to find correlation between histological microscopy and microscopic MR in evaluation of the repair of osteochondral defects in articular cartilage. Study was based animal model (rabbit). The cartilage repair process was evaluated histology and micro MR. Most of the defects were filled with fibrocartilage and fibrous tissue formed. Both methods were equally efficient to show repair tissue thickness, subchondral bone reconstruction and disintegration. Result of observation by both histological and MR microscopy and showed good correlation. Micro MR is promising evaluation tool for cartilage repair monitoring. Results of micro MR correlate well with standard microscopy.

Articular cartilage has a very limited capacity for regeneration and the untreated injuries of this tissue may lead to osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of collagen scaffolds in surgical reconstruction of articular cartilage. A group of 28 rabbits was used in the study. A defect penetrating into the subchondral bone was made. The animals were divided into 2 groups: group 1- defects filled with collagen scaffold, group II the defects remained empty. The results were evaluated at 4 a 12 weeks. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation was performed. On gross examination of the group I complete filling of the defect with regenerated tissue was observed. This tissue had smooth surface and was completely integrated with the surrounding cartilage. In the group II the surface of the newly formed tissue showed large irregularities. The defect was partially filled and incompletely integrated with the residual cartilage. Microscopic results indicate presence of hyaline-like cartilage resembling normal articular cartilage in group I. Regenerate was more stable and remained stable with longer follow-up. Group II revealed mostly fibrous tissue in regenerate. Thickness was inadequate with visible surface irregularities and loss in tissue integrity. This study proved better results of reconstruction of articular cartilage by means of biodegradable scaffold.