Would I Benefit from a Cartilage Procedure for My Knee Injury?

Whether you need a cartilage transplant for your knee depends on several factors, including the extent of the cartilage damage, your symptoms, activity level, and overall health. Cartilage transplants, such as autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) or osteochondral allograft transplantation, are typically considered for individuals with symptomatic cartilage defects that have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and activity modification.

Here are some factors to consider when determining if a cartilage transplant may be necessary for your knee:

1. Extent of Cartilage Damage: Cartilage transplants are often considered for individuals with focal cartilage defects or lesions that are causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms like locking or catching. If you have extensive cartilage damage throughout the knee joint or advanced osteoarthritis, a cartilage transplant may not be appropriate.

2. Symptoms: If you're experiencing persistent knee pain, swelling, and functional limitations despite conservative treatments, it may indicate that the cartilage damage is significant and may benefit from a cartilage transplant.

3. Activity Level: Your activity level and functional demands play a role in determining whether a cartilage transplant is appropriate. Individuals with high activity levels, such as athletes or those with physically demanding jobs, may be more likely to consider a cartilage transplant to restore knee function and maintain their lifestyle.

4. Age and Health Status: Age and overall health can influence the success of a cartilage transplant. Younger, healthy individuals with isolated cartilage defects may be better candidates for cartilage transplantation compared to older individuals with multiple comorbidities or degenerative changes in the knee joint.

5. Response to Conservative Treatments: Before considering a cartilage transplant, it's essential to exhaust conservative treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and activity modification. If these treatments fail to alleviate symptoms and improve knee function, a cartilage transplant may be considered.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo a cartilage transplant is individualized and should be made in consultation with an orthopedic surgeon or sports medicine specialist who can evaluate your specific condition, discuss treatment options, and provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and preferences. They can help you weigh the potential benefits, risks, and alternatives of cartilage transplantation and determine if it's the most appropriate treatment option for your knee.

Author

Dr. Catherine Logan, MD, MBA Catherine Logan, MD, MBA, MSPT, is a sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex knee and shoulder surgery at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics (COSMO) in Denver, Colorado. As a former physical therapist & trainer, Dr. Logan provides a distinct expertise in sports injury, prevention, and surgical management.