[Homologous articular cartilage transplantation in animal experiments. Preliminary studies on sheep (author's transl)].

Homologous articular cartilage without subchondral bone instead of the usual osteochondral grafts was transplanted in sheep. The transplants were fixed to the host by a biological tissue adhesive based on fibrinogen clotting. Light- and electronmicroscopic studies showed viable transplants up to 7 months and a stable bony union with the host through endochondral bone formation. A additional external fixation of the joint after transplantation or the use of a conventional cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive failed to achieve positive results. The relations of these preliminary findings for restorative techniques of articular cartilage defects are discussed.