Effect of altered functional loading on the growth of condyle cartilage and subchondral bone in rabbit

Objective: To study the effect and significance of altered functional loading on the condyle cartilage and subchondral bone in rabbit.Methods: The model of altered functional loading was established in rabbit.The section was stained with HE and the thickness of condylar cartilage was measured and the pathology of subchondral bone was observed under microscope.Results: Compared with the control group,the thickness of intermediate and posterior part of condylar cartilage was increased in the 2-week group(P0.05),there was no significant change in the 4-week group;the thickness of anterior intermediate and posterior part of condylar cartilage was decrease in 6-week and 8-week group(P0.05),the trabeculae of the subchondral bone was thin and the bone marrow cavity was widened.Compared with the control group,there was no significant change in the recovery group,the thickness of condylar cartilage was increased compared with the control group.Conclusion: Altered functional loading can influence the growth of condyle cartilage and subchondral bone.