Abstract
Objectives:
Different surgical approaches are currently available to treat knee chondral defects. The technique used in this article combines microfractures with the use of an injectable atelocollagen matrix (Cartifill®). The matrix covers the defect and improves the mechanical stability of the blood clot and maintains the chondrogenic progenitor cells and growth factors in the defective area. The aim of our study is to evaluate and describe the results in a series of patients treated with atelocollagen matrix and microfractures.
Methods:
All patients treated with atelocollagen matrix due to a cartilage lesion with a minimum follow-up of 24 months were evaluated. Patients undergoing associated surgeries (osteotomies, meniscectomies, mosaicplasty, ligament reconstruction) in the same surgical procedure were included in the study. Clinical function was assessed before and after surgery with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Lysholm score and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Radiographic and magnetic resonance control were requested according to availability.
Results:
Twelve patients met the inclusion criteria. Three women. Average age of 50 years. Eight applications in medial condyle, 2 in lateral condyle and 4 in trochlea. One post-operative arthrofibrosis was recorded. One of the patients underwent an articular replacement of his knee 10 months after the surgery with finalization of follow-up. The pre / post-operative average was 39/52 (IKDC), 37/76 (Lysholm) and 8.5 / 3.5 (VAS).
Conclusion:
In our series, atelocollagen matrix combined with microfractures improved the clinical symptoms of patients with severe knee articular cartilage injury. However, a better selection of patients who require this procedure should be applied in future interventions.