Effect of CO2 laser on healing of cultured meniscus.
OBJECTIVE
A new method to improve cartilage repair is clinically important. The enhancement of meniscal healing by low power CO2 laser was investigated in an organ culture system.


METHODS
A longitudinal or a radial defect was made in the avascular zone of rabbit menisci. Irradiation by CO2 laser with 1 W (energy density 50 J/cm2) and 2 W (energy density 100 J/cm2) was used.


RESULTS
Histologic and scanning electron microscopic evaluations revealed that both energy densities of laser irradiation and the type of and the site of meniscal defect can influence the course and the outcome of meniscal healing. A marked increase in fibrochondrocytic proliferation and regeneration of collagen fibers were demonstrated in the meniscal defects irradiated by 100 J of CO2 laser energy.


CONCLUSIONS
The healing of meniscal defects could be promoted by low power CO2 laser irradiation.
Tsai
C L
CL
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei.
Huang
L L
LL
Kao
M C
MC
D000818:Animals; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D002356:Cartilage / Q000166:cytology* / Q000502:physiology; D007834:Lasers; D008592:Menisci, Tibial / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D009924:Organ Culture Techniques; D011817:Rabbits; D000070600:Tibial Meniscus Injuries; D014945:Wound Healing
D002245:Carbon Dioxide