Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation for Knee Cartilage and Osteochondral Defects: A Review of Indications, Technique, Rehabilitation, and Outcomes.

Abstract

» Osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation is a versatile treatment option for patients with cartilage and osteochondral defects. Indications for this procedure include young active patients with large focal defects, failure of previous cartilage repair, osteonecrosis, osteochondritis dissecans, and/or posttraumatic osteochondral defects.» OCA transplantation is a uniquely useful treatment option for patients with large high-grade osteochondral defects and for athletes who have substantial incentives to return to sport as quickly as possible.» Early reoperation after OCA transplantation is relatively common. Revision options for graft failure are limited. Thus, patients with contraindications such as a body mass index that is >35 kg/m2, uncorrectable malalignment of the knee joint, concomitant knee pathology, or a history of corticosteroid and/or tobacco use should be appropriately counseled.