Knee Cartilage Rejuvenation - Microfracture + stem cells / PRP

Knee cartilage microfracture is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to repair damaged articular cartilage in the knee joint. It is commonly performed on patients with small areas of cartilage damage caused by injury or early-stage arthritis. The goal is to promote the growth of new cartilage to fill in the damaged area, reducing pain and improving joint function.

Key Points:
- **Procedure**: During microfracture surgery, the surgeon creates tiny holes (microfractures) in the bone beneath the damaged cartilage using a specialized tool. These holes stimulate the release of bone marrow cells, which form a clot in the defect. Over time, this clot turns into a type of fibrocartilage, which can improve joint function.

- **Indications**: Microfracture is usually recommended for patients with small, localized areas of cartilage damage rather than widespread arthritis. It is often an option for younger or active individuals who want to delay or avoid more invasive procedures like knee replacement.

- **Recovery**: Recovery typically involves several weeks of limited weight-bearing to allow the new cartilage to heal. Physical therapy is crucial to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Full recovery can take 4-6 months, though returning to high-impact sports may take longer.

- **Outcomes**: Microfracture can reduce pain and improve knee function in the short to medium term, particularly for smaller cartilage defects. However, the newly formed fibrocartilage is not as durable as the original hyaline cartilage, and the results may diminish over time, especially in active individuals.

- **Risks**: Risks include infection, stiffness, and incomplete healing of the cartilage. Over time, the newly formed fibrocartilage may break down, potentially leading to further joint issues.

Microfracture is a cost-effective, less invasive option for repairing knee cartilage and can delay the need for more extensive surgeries. While it’s effective for small defects, outcomes can vary based on patient age, activity level, and the size of the cartilage injury.

Dr. Darshan Angadi, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Medical Director, will support you throughout every stage of your treatment and recovery after microfracture procedure, ensuring the best possible outcome.