Knee cartilage transplantation

Transplantation of stem cells from the bone marrow, cartilage cells, is a surgical technique that repairs cartilage damage using cells obtained from the patient’s body. Thanks to this knee cartilage transplantation technique, knee pain is reduced and the ability to bear body weight is restored. It also improves flexibility and prevents the installation of an artificial knee. However, if the cartilage defect is too large, then the patient is not a candidate for transplantation and a partial or total knee endoprosthesis must be performed (implantation of an artificial knee).

Candidates for cartilage transplantation

Although this method, knee cartilage transplantation , is generally recommended only for patients under the age of 55, the biological age of the patient, not the calendar, is crucial. In some cases, cartilage transplantation can be performed even in patients older than 65 years. This happens if they meet the necessary criteria. Recent magnetic resonance imaging of the knee as well as x-rays are taken into account to assess whether a cartilage transplant is the best option. However, often, the knee specialist can only determine during the procedure itself whether a partial prosthesis or a cartilage transplant is the best therapeutic option.

The process of performing cartilage transplating

The surgeon will first remove the damaged cartilage tissue from the knee and then insert the stem cell carrier. The cells live permanently in this special carrier. The stem cells will stick to the bone, form connective tissue and fill the gap with tissue very similar to the original cartilage. The whole process takes place after several weeks to several months, depending on the characteristics of the defect itself.

To ensure a successful outcome of a cartilage transplant, it is important that the problems that led to the cartilage damage (eg, mismatched articular surfaces, ruptured cruciate ligaments, damaged menisci) are recognized and treated. This is usually done at the same time as the transplant. In this way, unnecessary re-exposure of patients to total or spinal anesthesia is avoided. The anesthesiologist often uses a so-called nerve block before surgery, which will numb the knee for about 30 hours. This procedure itself regulates most of the pain, and any remaining discomfort can be easily remedied with medication.

Recovery

After surgery, the leg should be kept elevated and the knee should be cooled with compresses. The sutures will be removed between 7 and 12 days after the operation. Only when the sutures are removed will the patient be able to take a shower. You should rest the knee and avoid leaning on it for approximately 6 weeks to avoid complications. A special M4 orthosis is obtained, which prevents excessive movement in the knee joint. Crutches will be provided during this period. At a time when you are not able to rely on your leg, thrombosis prophylaxis is key and certainly physiotherapy to prevent muscle atrophy and maintain knee function.

For all additional information and appointments, call the BioCell Hospital contact center at 011 66 88 000 or 060 66 88 000, and you can also contact us via the contact form by clicking on the CONTACT link