Stem Cell Cartilage Transplant
Stem cells from your own bone marrow are transplanted into damaged cartilage to regenerate it.
Small holes are made in the damaged cartilage so marrow stem cells come out, and part of the harvested cartilage is ground and grafted back. The regenerated cartilage is similar in quality to the original, so you can keep your own joint for a long time.
Recommended for
- Severe pain from knee joint or cartilage damage
- Cartilage almost worn away from osteoarthritis
- Early or middle-stage osteoarthritis
- Patients who cannot have knee replacement
Cartilage regeneration
Excellent regeneration from a single operation.
Safe
Your own stem cells, so no worry about rejection.
No infection worry
Not cultured, so no risk of infection or genetic change.
Questions patients ask
How is it done?
Bone marrow is drawn from the pelvis and waste separated, leaving concentrated stem cells. Damage is checked arthroscopically and damaged cartilage is removed through a small incision. The stem cell concentrate is applied, covered with collagen, and the skin is closed.
Who can have it?
It can be done at any age and is approved for both traumatic and degenerative cartilage damage. One procedure can regenerate cartilage and takes only 30 to 60 minutes, making it well suited to older patients.
AftercareRest so no force is placed on the repaired area. The grafted bone and cartilage need a period of stability and caution to settle into the knee.