High impact sport after autologous chondrocyte implantation in the knee

Abstract

Aims and Objectives:Matrix-based autologous chondrocyte implantation is a well-established treatment for full cartilage defects. When to resume to high impact sports after matrix-based autologous chondrocyte implantation is controversial.Materials and Methods:Forty-four patients with cartilage defects of the knee were treated with autologous chondrocyte implantation (Novocart®3D). All patients were assessed preoperatively and after a period of 24 months with the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity score. The return to high impact sports (soccer, basketball, running, etc.) after matrix-based autologous chondrocyte implantation was documented. Patients were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee Knee Examination Form and visual analogue scale for pain after 6, 12 and 24 months.Results:The average return to physical activities or sports after matrix-based autologous chondrocyte implantation procedure was 10.2 months. Patients with a later return of high impact sports after 12 months showed significantly better clinical results after two years. Fifty-five percent showed an unchanged level of physical activity in the UCLA Activity score in the postoperative course. About 35% showed a lower level and 10% a higher level of physical activity.Conclusion:Resuming to high impact sport in the first 12 months after ACI procedure leads to inferior outcomes up to 24 months after matrix-based autologous chondrocyte implantation.