Abstract
Autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC) is a treatment for focal full-thickness cartilage defects combining microfracturing with an exogenous I/III collagen matrix (Chondro-Gide). The aim of the present study was to determine the 7years outcomes of patients treated with the AMIC technique for knee chondral defects larger than 2cm2. The hypothesis was that the positive short-term outcomes achieved in the previous series would not deteriorate at a 7-year follow-up. Twenty-one patients treated with the AMIC technique were retrospectively analysed. Patients were assessed through the IKDC subjective knee evaluation questionnaire and the Lysholm scoring system. All patients underwent a complete imaging study including radiographs and magnetic resonance. The median defect size was found to be 4.3 (range 2.9-8) cm2. At a median follow-up of 7 (±1.4) years, the mean IKDC score improved from 31.7 (±8.9) points preoperatively, to 80.6 (±5.3) at the latest follow-up (p<0.05). The mean Lysholm score improved from 38.8 (±12.4) points preoperatively to 72.6 (±19.5) points at the last follow-up (p<0.05). At the last follow-up, 76.2% of patients were satisfied or extremely satisfied with their outcomes, while 66.6% of patients showed good quality repair tissue on magnetic resonance imaging. AMIC was found to be an effective method to treat full-thickness knee chondral defects larger than 2cm2, with significant clinical and functional improvement maintained over a 7-year follow-up. IV.
Published Version
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