Cartilage Transplantation: A Joint Preservation Alternative

Cartilage transplant knee is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged cartilage in the knee joint with healthy, active cartilage. Cartilage is a smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints. It helps to cushion the joints and reduce friction. Cartilage damage can occur from a variety of causes, including injuries, overuse, and arthritis.

There are three main types of cartilage transplant knee surgery:

• Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI): This procedure involves taking healthy cartilage cells from a non-weight-bearing area of the knee and growing them in a laboratory. Once the cells have multiplied, they are transplanted back into the damaged area of the knee.

• Osteochondral autograft transfer system (OATS): This procedure involves taking a small piece of bone and cartilage from a non-weight-bearing area of the knee and transplanting it into the damaged area.

• Osteochondral allograft (OCA): This procedure involves using a size-matched graft from an organ donor that is freshly prepared and inserted into the cartilage defect. The graft involves a bone base that heals directly to recipient bone in the defect.

Cartilage transplant knee surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Patients typically go home the same day after surgery. Recovery from cartilage transplant knee surgery can take several months. Patients may need to use crutches or a walker for a few weeks after surgery. They may also need to participate in physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in their knee.

The success rate of cartilage transplant knee surgery is high. Most patients experience significant improvement in their pain and function after surgery. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, and stiffness.

If you are considering cartilage transplant knee surgery, please contact us to discuss indications and treatment options.