Autologous chondrocyte implantation for traumatic large cartilage defect.
OBJECTIVE
The authors report the immediate result (6 months) after Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) in clinical and anatomic result with MRI. This is the first report ofACI that provides chondrocyte cells from a domestic lab.


METHODS
ACI was done in a two-stage procedure, first stage via arthroscope to harvest cartilage and detect pathology. The authors found deep cartilage defect at grade 4 according ICRS, area 2.5 cm2 and near total meniscus tear. Meniscal repair and cartilage shaving were done. Harvesting 300 mg of cartilage was done in this stage. Four weeks later, the secondACl was done. Lateral para-patellar was used. Periosteum was used as chondrocyte suspension and by suture to the healthy cartilage, using prolene interrupted suture in conjunction with fibrin glue to seal the pocket after injecting the cell. Range of motion exercise started on day 2, assisted with continuous passive motion machine. Running and jumping were restricted for 9 months.


RESULTS
No complication was found, full range of motion and walking was done at 7-8 weeks post operative. Visual analogue scale improved from 3 points to 0 point. MRI shows evidence of 100% filling of the repair tissue in defect site associated with hypertrophy of the repair tissue above chondral surface.


CONCLUSIONS
Immediate result of ACI shows improvement in clinical and anatomic that present with MRI. Further follow up and case series is needed
Chanlalit
Cholawish
C
Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinvirot University, Nakhon Nayok 26120, Thailand.
Kasemkijwattanamd
Channarong
C
Varavit
Vithaya
V
D000293:Adolescent; D001182:Arthroscopy; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D019902:Chondrocytes / Q000637:transplantation*; D006801:Humans; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous