Background: Reconstructive surgery needs high requirements of substitutes for cartilages. The availability of autologous material is limited. The use of implants can cause inflammatory reactions. Therefore the biocompatibility of porous polyethylene should be improved by masking the synthetic surface with autologous cells. The polyethylene surface was functionalized by collagen, in order to enhance the contact between polyethylene and the surrounding cells.
Methods: The modified surfaces were characterized and tested by an in vitro screening with primary human chondrocytes.
Results: The modification of polyethylene surfaces by collagen coating increased the life time of chondrocytes growing at this surface. The effect was independent of the former functionalization.
Conclusions: It is possible to cultivate chondrocytes on polyethylene surfaces. The results have to be proven in a long-term animal experimental study.