Knorpeltransplantation

Knorpeltransplantation, also known as cartilage transplantation or cartilage grafting, is a surgical procedure used to repair damaged articular cartilage in joints. This type of cartilage lines the ends of bones within a joint, providing a smooth surface for movement and absorbing shock. When this cartilage is damaged due to injury, arthritis, or degeneration, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function.

The primary goal of knorpeltransplantation is to restore the smooth, load-bearing surface of the joint. There are several techniques employed, with autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) being a common method. In ACI, a small sample of the patient's own healthy cartilage cells (chondrocytes) are harvested, cultured in a laboratory to increase their numbers, and then implanted back into the damaged area, typically within a prepared defect. Another technique is osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT), where plugs of healthy cartilage and bone are taken from a non-weight-bearing area of the patient's joint and transplanted into the damaged site. Mosaicplasty is a variation of OAT that uses multiple small plugs to cover a larger area. Allograft transplantation, using cartilage from a donor, is also an option for certain cases.

The success of knorpeltransplantation depends on various factors, including the size and location of the defect, the patient's age and activity level, and the surgical technique used. Recovery can involve a period of restricted weight-bearing and a structured rehabilitation program to promote healing and regain joint function. While these procedures aim to alleviate pain and improve mobility, they do not always restore the joint to its original state and may not be suitable for all types of cartilage damage.