[Free periosteal autografting in repair of articular cartilage: an experimental study and clinical application].

38 white rabbits in 4 groups were used in this experiment to investigated the metaplastic process and the outcome of the autografted periosteum on cartilage defect created artificially on acetabulum and femoral condyle. The specimens were scrupulously surveyed with conventional methods and analysis of their trace elements and amino acids, which was the means first used in evaluating the nature of metaplastic tissue. Conclusions drown from this experiment are as follows: (1) The autografted periosteum processes a metaplastic potential of forming articular cartilage under certain conditions. (2) Continuous passive movement of the grafted joint accelerate the metaplastic process, forming cartilage. (3) Synovial fluid plays certain role in survival of the transplanted periosteum and its metaplasia. However, excision of the synovium did not affect the result much, probably due to its rapid and powerful regeneration.