Arthroscopic ACI (Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation) cartilage transplant is a surgical procedure that is used to repair damaged cartilage in a joint. The procedure involves taking healthy cartilage cells from a patient’s own body and implanting them into the damaged area of the joint to encourage the growth of new cartilage. This procedure is typically used to treat patients with cartilage damage in the knee, although it may also be used in other joints such as the ankle or shoulder. The goal of the procedure is to relieve pain, improve joint function, and potentially delay or prevent the need for joint replacement surgery.
Pre-op for arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant
Before undergoing an arthroscopic ACI (autologous chondrocyte implantation) cartilage transplant procedure, the patient will typically have a thorough evaluation by their orthopedic surgeon. This evaluation may include a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. The surgeon will assess the extent of cartilage damage and determine if the patient is a good candidate for the procedure. The patient will also be advised to follow pre-operative instructions such as not eating or drinking after midnight on the day of the surgery and refraining from taking certain medications that may increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with anesthesia.
Arthroscopic ACI (Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation) Cartilage Transplant is a procedure used to repair damaged articular cartilage. It involves taking healthy cartilage cells from the patient and growing them in a lab, then transplanting them back into the affected area of the joint using a small arthroscope. Here are the steps involved in the procedure:
Harvesting healthy cartilage cells: In the first step, healthy cartilage cells are harvested from a non-weight-bearing area of the joint.
Growing the cartilage cells in the lab: The harvested cartilage cells are then sent to a lab where they are grown and multiplied to create a larger number of healthy cartilage cells.
Preparing the damaged area: The surgeon prepares the damaged area of the joint by removing any loose or damaged cartilage tissue, creating a stable and clean surface for the new cartilage cells to be implanted.
Implanting the cartilage cells: The surgeon implants the new cartilage cells into the prepared area using a small arthroscope, which allows for a minimally invasive procedure.
Covering the area with a patch: Once the new cartilage cells are implanted, the surgeon covers the area with a special patch that protects the implant during the healing process.
Closing the incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, and the joint is wrapped in a sterile dressing.
The entire procedure usually takes several hours to complete, and the patient will typically need to stay in the hospital for a day or two following the surgery.
Post-op for arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant
After the arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant procedure, the patient is typically required to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for observation. The operated joint will be immobilized for a period of time, usually with the help of a brace or a cast. Physical therapy and rehabilitation will be initiated as soon as possible to help restore joint mobility and function. The rehabilitation process will be individualized based on the patient’s age, overall health, and specific surgical procedure. It is important for the patient to follow the rehabilitation protocol closely to achieve the best possible outcome. The patient may also be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to manage pain and prevent infection. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be necessary to monitor the healing process and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed.
The rehabilitation program after arthroscopic ACI (autologous chondrocyte implantation) cartilage transplant depends on the size and location of the cartilage defect and the surgical technique used. However, in general, the rehabilitation program typically involves the following phases:
Protection phase: The goal of this phase is to protect the implanted cartilage from weight-bearing activities and excessive stress. This phase typically lasts for the first 6 weeks after surgery. During this phase, patients may be required to use crutches, wear a brace, and limit their activities.
Motion phase: The goal of this phase is to restore normal joint motion gradually. This phase typically starts around 6 weeks after surgery and lasts for about 6-8 weeks. During this phase, patients may begin to perform range-of-motion exercises and activities that do not put excessive stress on the joint.
Strengthening phase: The goal of this phase is to increase the strength of the muscles around the joint. This phase typically starts around 3 months after surgery and lasts for several months. During this phase, patients may perform exercises to strengthen the muscles of the hip, knee, and ankle.
Return-to-sport phase: The goal of this phase is to prepare the patient for a safe return to sports or other activities. This phase typically starts around 6 months after surgery and lasts until the patient is ready to return to their previous activities. During this phase, patients may perform sport-specific exercises and gradually increase the intensity of their activities.
It is essential to follow the specific rehabilitation program designed by the surgeon and physical therapist to ensure optimal recovery and the best possible outcome.
