Current management of cartilage defects: a review

Abstract

AbstractCartilage defects are a significant cause of morbidity and diminished quality of life, often leading to osteoarthritis (OA). Pain relief, restoration of joint function, and prevention or delay of the onset of OA are the aims of management, and initial treatment is usually conservative but temporary. Recent advances in understanding cartilage biology and the use of diagnostic imaging techniques have, however, allowed more aggressive approaches to cartilage repair which include: arthroscopic lavage with or without debridement; marrow stimulation procedures; implantation of autologous cells or tissue; and knee reconstruction. The role of these techniques in the clinician's effort to match treatment to a patient's needs and expectations is reviewed.