Injury to articular cartilage typically causes pain on activity, catching and swelling of the joint.
Why you might need it
Articular cartilage is the weight-bearing surface in joints, and cannot repair itself. Injury to articular cartilage typically causes pain on activity, catching and swelling of the joint. If left untreated, degeneration and eventual osteoarthritis can result. Sports injuries are the prime cause of cartilage damage in 16-50 year olds.
Some treatment options aim to create a ‘scar’ over the damage. Chondrocyte transplantation (MACI), however, is durable treatment that can regenerate the damaged cartilage.
MACI is typically considered for cartilage damage that causes symptoms in a knee that is not unstable, and in a patient motivated for rehabilitation. For very small areas of damage other treatments can be effective, for larger areas of injury, however, MACI can be the best solution.
Find a Spire hospital offering this treatment
Who will do it?
Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.
All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.
Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.
Before your treatment
You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.
We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.
Preparing for your treatment
We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.
For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.
Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.
The procedure
A sample of the patients' own cartilage, harvested by keyhole surgery, is grown and expanded in a laboratory. These cells are then re-implanted in the damaged area.
Why choose Spire?
We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.
Important to note
The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.