Abstract
This study compares silicone implant and tendon interposition arthroplasty with respect to their effects on articular cartilage, subchondral bone, joint mobility and synovial inflammation in the canine model. The documentation of silicone in the synovial membrane, opposing cartilage and regional lymph nodes suggest that silicone has the potential to induce both local and systemic inflammation. Although the TI group tended to have greater radiographic degenerative joint disease and more carpal collapse, cartilage metaplasia in the tendon indicates that this interpositional material can be a viable biological spacer, perhaps best suited for non-weightbearing joints and without the inherent risk of silicone synovitis.