Natural articular<unk>  is an inhomogeneous, anisotropic, and viscoelastic tissue. The structure, described above 1.1.2. allows the<unk> nous tissue to have superior mechanical properties in order to perform the functions necessary. Synthetic<unk>  will attempt to mimic the functional properties of natural<unk> , which can be broken down into two main aspects. * Load bearing properties: One of the main functions of articular<unk>  is that it has the capability to effectively transfer repeated cyclic loading to bone. This compressive load can be multiple times the body weight due to activities such as walking and running, however<unk>  achieves this function by dissipating energy. * Tribological properties: The second main function of articular<unk>  is that it can have little to no wear over the course of the lifetime. It achieves this function by providing a lubricated surface with a coefficient of friction near zero. By creating a smooth surface, this lubrication prevents both cell and protein adhesion while also protecting the articular<unk>  from damage. These are important functions of<unk>  because of its role as a cushion in bone articulation. When damage and degradation occurs to the articular<unk> , it can no longer withstand the large loads without pain and discomfort of the individual due to the decrease in mechanical properties. After analyzing the load bearing and tribological properties of natural<unk> , these mechanical properties may be achieved depending on the structure and components of the hydrogel created, which will be discussed further in the Existing Methods section. These optimal properties can then be compared to the synthetic<unk>  created. The properties of the hydrogels created can differ dramatically based on the components and the structure. Furthermore, it is extremely difficult to achieve all mechanical functions of natural<unk> , which is the end goal of synthetic<unk> . When dealing with creating hydrogels, there are additional functions that must be considered. For example, the hydrogel must have the correct degradation properties in order to produce cell regeneration in the correct time frame that the hydrogel will take to degrade. Additionally, the hydrogel must not create toxic waste when degrading. These functions have been tested by comparing the stress, modulus and water content before and after implantation of different compositions of hydrogels.
Artificial cartilage
Artificial ligament
Artificial bone
Bone cement
Nano-scaffold
Surgical mesh
Hydrocollator
Articular cartilage stem cell paste grafting