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Single-stage or two-stage cartilage repairCartilage repair decisions hinge on defect size: lesions below roughly 1.5–2 cm² suit single-stage surgery, those of 2–4 cm² permit either approach, and larger defects typically require tissue replacement rather than repair.Cartilage repair decisions hinge on defect size: lesions below roughly 1.5–2 cm² suit single-stage surgery, those of 2–4 cm² permit either approach, and larger defects typically require tissue replacement rather than repair.
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When cartilage repair is the right choiceCartilage repair succeeds for a focal defect in otherwise healthy joint tissue in younger patients, but fails in diffuse arthritis. Lesion size, depth, patient age, and activity level determine the appropriate technique.Cartilage repair succeeds for a focal defect in otherwise healthy joint tissue in younger patients, but fails in diffuse arthritis. Lesion size, depth, patient age, and activity level determine the appropriate technique.
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How ACI and MACI differ for cartilage repairMACI pre-seeds cultured chondrocytes onto a collagen membrane fixed with fibrin glue, eliminating the sutures required in earlier ACI variants. The technique enables arthroscopic implantation and supports faster recovery than open surgical approaches.MACI pre-seeds cultured chondrocytes onto a collagen membrane fixed with fibrin glue, eliminating the sutures required in earlier ACI variants. The technique enables arthroscopic implantation and supports faster recovery than open surgical approaches.
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When is it too late for cartilage repair?Once cartilage loss becomes generalised and surfaces contact bone, no restoration procedure works; repair is viable only for focal defects.Once cartilage loss becomes generalised and surfaces contact bone, no restoration procedure works; repair is viable only for focal defects.
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AMIC versus MACI for focal cartilage repairAMIC repairs focal cartilage defects in one operation: drilling channels into damaged cartilage releases a blood clot rich in stem cells, which a collagen membrane then stabilises and concentrates to guide tissue repair. A 2025 trial found it equivalent to MACI at two years.AMIC repairs focal cartilage defects in one operation: drilling channels into damaged cartilage releases a blood clot rich in stem cells, which a collagen membrane then stabilises and concentrates to guide tissue repair. A 2025 trial found it equivalent to MACI at two years.
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Choosing ACI, MACI or single‑stage cell surgeryACI and MACI are two-stage repairs for localised full-thickness cartilage defects, while single-stage techniques place cells or cell-rich material into the defect in one operation. MACI has the strongest long-term follow-up, but single-stage methods still rest mainly on smaller, less comparable series.ACI and MACI are two-stage repairs for localised full-thickness cartilage defects, while single-stage techniques place cells or cell-rich material into the defect in one operation. MACI has the strongest long-term follow-up, but single-stage methods still rest mainly on smaller, less comparable series.
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What to Expect Before, During, and After a Steroid InjectionSteroid injections are effective treatments for reducing inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. Administered directly into affected joints or tissues, these injections contain corticosteroids that suppress the immune response, offering relief within days. While not a cure, they improve mobility and delay surgical needs. The procedure…Steroid injections are effective treatments for reducing inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. Administered directly into affected joints or tissues, these injections contain corticosteroids that suppress the immune response, offering relief within days. While not a cure, they improve mobility and delay surgical needs. The procedure is quick, with minor aftercare including rest and ice application recommended. Potential risks include tendon weakening and cartilage thinning from repeated use, so injections are limited and best combined with physiotherapy. Side effects are usually mild but patients should monitor for infection signs. Steroid injections are suited for those with significant pain unresponsive to other treatments and can enhance quality of life when part of a comprehensive care plan.
