Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation

If you need a autologous chondrocyte transplantation, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation?

Autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT) is a surgical procedure used to repair focal cartilage defects or injuries in joints, typically the knee. Surgeons perform ACT by first harvesting healthy cartilage cells from a non-weight-bearing area of the patient’s joint. These cells are then cultured and multiplied in a laboratory setting to generate a sufficient number of chondrocytes for transplantation.

Once the chondrocytes are ready, the surgeon prepares the damaged area by removing degenerated cartilage and creating a suitable environment for new cells. The cultured chondrocytes are then implanted into the defect, where they begin to integrate and promote the growth of new cartilage. This process aims to restore the smooth surface of the joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.

ACT offers significant benefits, including the use of the patient’s own cells, which reduces the risk of rejection and adverse reactions. It provides a durable solution for cartilage repair, potentially delaying the need for more invasive procedures like joint replacement. By addressing the root cause of cartilage damage, ACT enhances joint function and overall quality of life for patients with cartilage injuries.

Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation Procedure

The surgical team harvests a small amount of healthy cartilage tissue from a non-weight-bearing area of the patient’s joint, such as the edge of the knee joint. They then send the harvested cartilage tissue to a laboratory. Furthermore, they isolate and culture the chondrocytes to increase their numbers, a process typically taking a few weeks.

In a separate surgical procedure, the team prepares the damaged area of the joint by removing the damaged cartilage and shaping the underlying bone to create a stable base for the transplanted cells. Subsequently, they implant the cultured chondrocytes into the prepared defect, either alone or within a scaffold or matrix, which helps hold the cells in place and support their growth.

Following the procedure, the patient undergoes a prescribed period of rehabilitation. This may involve a period of restricted weight-bearing, the use of crutches, and a gradual progression of physical therapy exercises to promote healing and recovery.

The goal of this procedure deems to promote the growth of new cartilage tissue that closely resembles the patient’s original cartilage. Thereby, restoring joint function and reducing pain. This technique is most suitable for focal cartilage defects in patients who have otherwise healthy surrounding cartilage and are experiencing symptoms such as pain, swelling, and limited joint mobility.

Physicians considere ACT a more complex and involved procedure compared to simpler techniques such as arthroscopic chondroplasty. Moreover, physicians typically recommend ACT for larger cartilage defects or for individuals who have not experienced sufficient improvement with conservative treatments.

Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation Benefits

Autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT) offers numerous benefits for individuals with cartilage defects or injuries, particularly in the knee joint. By using the patient’s own healthy cartilage cells, ACT reduces the risk of immune rejection and adverse reactions, making it a safe and biocompatible treatment option. The procedure promotes the growth of new, functional cartilage, which can effectively restore the smooth surface of the joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.

One of the significant advantages of ACT is its potential to provide long-lasting relief and delay the need for more invasive procedures, such as joint replacement surgery. It allows for a more natural repair process, maintaining the integrity and function of the joint. Additionally, ACT can be tailored to individual patients, as the cultured chondrocytes are specifically grown to match the damaged area.

Patients who undergo ACT often experience improved joint function, enhanced quality of life, and a quicker return to their regular activities. This innovative procedure offers a promising solution for those suffering from cartilage damage, ensuring better joint health and long-term benefits.

Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation Risks

As with any surgical procedure, autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT) carries potential risks and complications. Some include infection, bleeding, graft failure, scar tissue formation, and limited improvement in symptoms. The success of ACT depends on various factors, such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the specific characteristics of the cartilage defect, including its size and location.

Consulting with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in cartilage restoration is crucial to determine if ACT is a suitable treatment option. The surgeon will evaluate your specific joint condition, considering the extent of the cartilage damage, your overall joint health, and your individual goals. This thorough assessment helps in making an informed decision about the procedure.

The surgeon will also review your medical history and perform imaging studies to understand the precise nature of the cartilage defect. Based on this comprehensive evaluation, the surgeon will provide personalized treatment recommendations, ensuring that the chosen approach aligns with your needs and maximizes the potential for successful cartilage repair and improved joint function.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.