Knee Cartilage Restoration

What is Knee Cartilage Restoration?

Knee cartilage restoration is a surgical technique to repair damaged articular cartilage in the knee joint by stimulating new growth of cartilage or by transplanting cartilage into areas with defects in order to relieve pain and restore normal function to the knee.

Articular cartilage damage can occur from normal wear and tear of the knee joints, increasing age, injury, or other disease conditions. When cartilage is damaged, it can cause severe pain, inflammation, stiffness, and decreased range of motion of the knee. Because of its avascular nature (absence of blood supply), cartilage cannot repair itself and therefore surgical treatment is usually required to restore cartilage function and prevent progression of the damage into arthritis.

What is Articular Cartilage?

Articular cartilage is the smooth, shiny, white tissue covering the ends of bones that form a joint. Articular cartilage reduces friction when bones glide over each other, making the movements smooth and painless. It also acts as a shock-absorber to help prevent traumatic injuries to the bones.

What are the Indications for Knee Cartilage Restoration?

Knee cartilage restoration is indicated for patients with knee cartilage deterioration or damage as a result of:

• Repetitive use of the knee joint
• Trauma or injury
• Hormonal conditions, such as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)
• Congenital deformities

What Does the Procedure for Knee Cartilage Restoration Involve?

Most cartilage restoration procedures can be performed arthroscopically, a minimally invasive surgery that involves making 3 small keyhole incisions around the knee joint using an arthroscope, a small flexible tube with a light and video camera at the end that enables your surgeon to view inside of the joints and perform surgery. In certain cases, open surgery may be required to access the affected area requiring longer incisions. Your surgeon will discuss the best surgical options for you based on your condition.

Usually, recovery from an arthroscopic procedure is much faster with minimal pain than a traditional, open surgery.

Some of the most common procedures for knee cartilage restoration include:

• Microfracture: In this method, numerous holes are created in the injured joint surface using a sharp tool. This procedure stimulates a healing response by creating a new blood supply which results in the growth of new cartilage.
• Drilling: In this method, a drilling instrument is used to create holes in the injured joint surface. Drilling holes creates blood supply and stimulates the growth of new cartilage. Although the method is similar to microfracture, it is less precise, and the heat produced during drilling may damage other tissues.
• Abrasion Arthroplasty: This procedure is similar to drilling, but a high-speed metal-like object is used to remove the damaged cartilage instead of drills or wires.
• Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation: Healthy cartilage tissue (graft) is taken from the bone that bears less weight and is transferred to the injured joint place. This method is used for smaller cartilage defects.
• Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation: A cartilage tissue (graft) is taken from a donor and transplanted to the site of the injury. Allograft technique is recommended if a larger part of the cartilage is damaged.
• Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation: In this method, a piece of healthy cartilage from another site is removed using an arthroscopic technique and is cultured in the laboratory. Cultured cells form a larger patch which is then implanted in the damaged part by open surgery.

What Does Postoperative Care for Knee Cartilage Restoration Involve?

In general, postoperative care and recovery after knee cartilage restoration involve the following:

• You will be transferred to the recovery area to be monitored until you are awake from the anesthesia.
• Your nurse will monitor your blood oxygen level and other vital signs as you recover.
• You will be placed on crutches for the first few weeks with instructions on restricted weight-bearing. You are encouraged to walk with assistance as frequently as possible to prevent blood clots.
• Use of a continuous passive motion machine (CPM) at home is advised during the first few weeks to aid in the constant movement of the joint under a controlled range of motion.
• You are advised to keep your leg elevated while resting to prevent swelling and pain.
• You will notice some pain and discomfort in the knee area. Medications will be provided for comfort.
• Physical therapy and range of motion exercises are advised to restore mobility and strengthen the joints and muscles.
• Anti-nausea medications will be prescribed as needed for discomfort associated with anesthesia.
• You should keep your surgical site clean and dry for at least 48 hours. Instructions on surgical site care and bathing will be provided.
• Refrain from smoking as it can negatively affect the healing process.
• Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamin D is strongly advised to promote healing and a faster recovery.
• Refrain from strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects for the first couple of months. Gradual increase in activities over a period of time is recommended.
• You will be able to return to your normal activities in a month or two; however, return to sports may take 4 to 6 months.
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor your progress.

What are the Risks and Complications of Knee Cartilage Restoration?

Knee cartilage restoration is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any surgery, there are risks and complications that could occur, such as:

• Post-operative bleeding
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
• Infection
• Stiffness of the joint
• Numbness around the incisions
• Injury to vessels, nerves, or healthy cartilage
• Allergic response
• Failure of the graft
• Loosening of the graft

Richard Judd Robins

MD, FAAOS, FAANA Dual Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine

Dr. Robins brings more than 26 years of experience in military service, orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, clinical care, and academic leadership. Throughout his distinguished career, he has dedicated himself to caring for active-duty military personnel, athletes, and patients with complex orthopaedic injuries while advancing education, research, and mentorship in orthopaedic sports medicine.

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Why Choose Dr. Richard Judd Robins for Knee Cartilage Restoration?

Choosing a skilled sports medicine specialist is essential when considering cartilage restoration procedures. Successful treatment requires careful evaluation of the cartilage injury, patient goals, and long-term knee health.

Dr. Robins offers:

• Dual board certification in Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
• Fellowship training in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
• Extensive experience treating athletes, military personnel, and active adults
• Advanced expertise in arthroscopic knee surgery and cartilage restoration procedures
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to the size, location, and severity of cartilage damage
• Focus on preserving natural joint function whenever possible
• Comprehensive care from diagnosis through rehabilitation and recovery

Whether your cartilage injury resulted from sports participation, a traumatic knee injury, or gradual wear and tear, Dr. Robins is committed to helping you achieve lasting pain relief and improved knee function.

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