Experimental Arthrosis by Hyperpressure

Abstract

The frequent occurrence of degenerative joint disease (DJD) pathology and the high degree of functional prejudice associated with it, justify the search for experimental models with a view to a better understanding of this pathology and its treatment. The models most commonly used resort to a sudden mechanical degradation by shock (post-contusive osteoarthritis) or to a kinematic disruption of the joint through more or less extensive menisco-capsulo-ligamentary lesions or lesions induced by toxic substances.

Cartilaginous lesions met with in human pathology are often secondary to a morphological anomaly at the origin of a hyperpressure. Maquet (1977) has suggested the bringing forward of the anterior tibial tubercle (ATT) in order to reduce the retro-patellar pressure. The drawing back by hollowing of this ATT appeared to us a suitable model for experimental osteoarthritis by hyperpressure.