Knee | Osteochondral Allograft
An osteochondral allograft is a specialized, minimally invasive cartilage tear repair technique performed by Dr. Aaron Schwartz to fix knee cartilage tears and damage
An osteochondral allograft is a transplant of healthy cartilage and underlying bone from a donor to an area of damaged cartilage in the knee. It can be an option for selected patients with focal cartilage defects who want to preserve their natural knee joint.
Dr. Schwartz recommends this video on the technique, shared courtesy of medical device company Arthrex, to help patients understand and prepare for this treatment option.
An OrthoIllustrated®
animation of the BioUni Allograft.
Frequently Asked Questions about Osteochondral Allograft
An osteochondral allograft is a piece of cartilage and underlying bone obtained from a human donor and transplanted into a damaged area of the knee.
Unlike procedures that only address the cartilage surface, an osteochondral allograft replaces both the damaged cartilage and the supporting bone beneath it.
Osteochondral allograft transplantation may be considered for patients with a focal cartilage defect of the knee, particularly when the damaged area is too large or deep for other cartilage-restoration procedures.
Candidate selection depends on factors including the location and size of the defect, underlying bone condition, alignment, ligament stability, age, activity level, and overall joint health.
Osteochondral allograft surgery is generally intended for focal cartilage defects, rather than widespread arthritis throughout the knee.
Patients with more extensive degenerative arthritis may require a different treatment approach, such as nonsurgical management or knee replacement, depending on the severity of disease.
The damaged portion of cartilage and bone is removed and prepared to receive the donor graft. A matching donor osteochondral graft is then placed into the defect and secured so that the transplanted cartilage restores the joint surface.
The procedure may be performed arthroscopically, through a small incision, or through a larger exposure depending on the location and size of the defect.
Sometimes, realignment of the bone with something called an osteotomy is needed to ensure that a patients’ alignment is corrected at the time surgery.
Recovery varies based on the location and size of the graft. Patients often require a period of protected or limited weight bearing while the graft heals.
Physical therapy is used to gradually restore knee motion, strength, and function. Return to higher-impact sports typically takes several months and depends on healing and rehabilitation progress.
The goal of cartilage restoration is to preserve the knee and potentially allow patients to return to desired activities. Return to sports is individualized and depends on graft healing, strength, motion, and the demands of the sport.
Potential risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, graft failure, persistent symptoms, failure of the cartilage to fully restore function, and the potential need for additional surgery.
Is Osteochondral Allograft Surgery Right for You?
A focal cartilage defect does not necessarily require surgery. An orthopedic evaluation and appropriate imaging can determine whether cartilage restoration, including osteochondral allograft knee surgery, is an appropriate option.
Schedule an evaluation to discuss your knee cartilage injury and treatment options.