Services

Articular cartilage is the smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones in the knee, allowing pain-free movement. Unlike most tissues in the body, cartilage has a very limited capacity to heal itself. When it is damaged- through injury, osteochondral defects, or early arthritis-  surgical intervention can restore the surface, relieve pain, and protect the joint long term.

Who is it for

Cartilage surgery is most suited to younger, active patients with a focal area of cartilage damage rather than widespread arthritis. The size and location of the lesion, the condition of the surrounding joint, and the patient's age and activity level all determine which procedure is most appropriate. In some cases cartilage surgery is performed alongside other procedures such as ACL reconstruction or osteotomy to optimise outcomes.

Procedures offered

Chondroplasty (debridement) Unstable or damaged cartilage is smoothed and stabilised arthroscopically. It does not regenerate cartilage but can reduce symptoms and is the least invasive option.

Microfracture Small holes are made in the bone beneath the cartilage defect, stimulating the body's own healing response. Stem cells migrate into the area and form a fibrocartilage cover. Best suited to smaller lesions under 2cm in younger patients with healthy underlying bone.

Osteochondral defect repair Cartilage injuries involving both the cartilage surface and the underlying bone- osteochondral defects- can be repaired directly. This is particularly relevant in younger patients with discrete osteochondral lesions (OCD).

OATS- Osteochondral Autograft Transfer Healthy cartilage and bone is taken from a non-weightbearing area of the knee and transplanted into the damaged area. OATS uses the patient's own tissue and is suited to focal defects where a durable, biological restoration of the joint surface is the goal.

Recovery

Recovery from cartilage surgery varies significantly depending on the procedure performed. Most techniques require a period of protected weightbearing-  typically four to six weeks on crutches- to allow the repair to heal. Physiotherapy is essential throughout recovery. Return to sport may take several months and will be guided by the type of repair and the rate of healing.

Follow up

Postoperative appointments are scheduled at two weeks and six weeks following surgery with ongoing review as required.