Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) for Patellofemoral Cartilage Repair
What is Knee Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI)?
Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) is a specialized surgical procedure used to repair localized cartilage damage, particularly effective for treating defects in the irregular contours of the patellofemoral cartilage. “Autologous” signifies that the cells used are harvested from the patient’s own body. These cells are cultured in a lab to produce new cartilage, which is then implanted into the damaged patellofemoral region.
Dr. Ben Mayo, an expert knee surgeon serving the Detroit area, is skilled in ACI surgery, especially for treating patellofemoral cartilage injuries. Schedule a consultation at his Livonia or Sterling Heights offices to determine if ACI is the right option for you.
ACI is best suited for younger adults experiencing isolated patellofemoral cartilage damage. It is typically recommended when other treatments like physical therapy or arthroscopic procedures have failed. ACI is not advised for patients with widespread cartilage damage, metabolic diseases, or active infections.
ACI is executed in two stages:
- Cell Harvesting: Your knee surgeon Dr. Mayo will first perform an arthroscopic procedure to harvest healthy cartilage cells from a non-load-bearing area in your knee. These cells are then sent to a lab, where they are cultured to increase in number.
- Cell Implantation: Once sufficient cells are cultivated, a second procedure is scheduled. Dr. Mayo will implant these cells into the damaged patellofemoral cartilage area to encourage new cartilage growth.
Complete recovery from ACI often takes between 6 to 12 months. The newly implanted cells require time to grow and form functional cartilage. Weight-bearing may be restricted for several weeks, and return to sports or strenuous activities could take several months.
Upon waking from anesthesia, you will spend some time in a recovery room before being discharged. Expect initial knee pain and swelling, which will be managed with medications. A knee brace and crutches will be provided to minimize weight on the knee.
Physical therapy is vital post-ACI, with goals including:
- Early Stage: Control swelling, pain management, and range of motion improvement.
- Middle Stage: Weight-bearing, strengthening, and stabilization exercises.
- Late Stage: Sport or activity-specific exercises.
While ACI is generally safe, some risks include:
- Infection: Low risk, mitigated by antibiotics.
- Blood Clots: Very rare, but can be serious.
- Graft Failure: The new cartilage might not grow as expected, necessitating further treatment.
- Knee Stiffness: Some patients may experience postoperative knee stiffness.
Failing to address the damaged patellofemoral cartilage could lead to further cartilage degradation, increased pain, knee instability, and eventually, osteoarthritis.
Schedule a knee consultation
For specialized care in treating patellofemoral cartilage defects, consult with Dr. Ben Mayo, a fellowship-trained knee surgeon. Dr. Mayo’s practices in Livonia and Sterling Heights serve the wider Detroit area, including Troy, Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, and Royal Oak. For personalized care with advanced treatment options like ACI, contact his office to schedule a consultation.
At a Glance
Ben Mayo, MD
- Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
- Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
- Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
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