RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the method of fabricating oriental scaffolds and investigate the biocompatibility of the scaffolds as well as cells distribution within the scaffolds in vitro.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The oriental poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds were fabricated with modified emulsion-phase separation method. The scaffolds were treated with plasma and then anchored with collagen I. Articular chondrocytes were loaded into the scaffolds. The growth status and distributing characteristic of the cells were investigated by environmental scanning electron microscope.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The scaffold was well compatible with the articular chondrocytes. The cells could reach to 2.5 mm depth with unilateral loading. The cells distributed evenly in the scaffold and lined along the inner pipes.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The oriental scaffold fabricated could significantly promote the distributing characteristics of the chondrocytes. The vertical alignment of the chondrocytes within the scaffold is closely similar to that of articular cartilage.</p>