Effect of various irrigating fluids on the ultrastructure of articular cartilage.

The effect of five different irrigating fluids on the ultrastructure of articular cartilage was studied utilizing the scanning electron microscope. Gross histologic studies have shown no significant difference amongst commonly used irrigating fluids on the surface or matrix composition of articular cartilage. Recent in vivo and in vitro biochemical studies, in addition, have shown no significant deleterious effects of irrigating fluids on articular cartilage composition. This study was prospectively undertaken to assess the effect of irrigating fluids on the ultrastructure of articular cartilage. When comparing five irrigating solutions utilizing the scanning electron microscope, specimens irrigated with 1.5% glycine seemed to show a more consistently smooth appearance. Ultrastructural changes were noted with the other four irrigating solutions tested.