Mohan, NGupta, VSridharan, BPMellott, AJEasley, JTPalmer, RHGalbraith, RAKey, VHBerkland, CJDetamore, MS2017-03-102017-03-10201510 ,6;709-72810.2217/rme.15.38https://dspace.sctimst.ac.in/handle/123456789/10062Background: The microfracture technique for cartilage repair has limited ability to regenerate hyaline cartilage. Aim: The current study made a direct comparison between microfracture and an osteochondral approach with microsphere-based gradient plugs. Materials & methods: The PLGA-based scaffolds had opposing gradients of chondroitin sulfate and beta-tricalcium phosphate. A 1-year repair study in sheep was conducted. Results: The repair tissues in the microfracture were mostly fibrous and had scattered fissures with degenerative changes. Cartilage regenerated with the gradient plugs had equal or superior mechanical properties; had lacunated cells and stable matrix as in hyaline cartilage. Conclusion: This first report of gradient scaffolds in a long-term, large animal, osteochondral defect demonstrated potential for equal or better cartilage repair than microfracture.Cell Biology; Engineering