Chondral defect repair is a procedure to treat damage to the cartilage that lines the surface of joints, commonly affecting the knee, hip, or ankle. A chondral defect refers to an area where the cartilage has worn away or been damaged, often due to trauma, overuse, or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. This can lead to pain, swelling, and impaired joint movement.
Treatment is recommended for patients experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or limited mobility due to a chondral defect. While conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections may offer temporary relief, surgical intervention is often necessary for more severe cases to restore joint function and prevent further damage.
Surgical options may include microfracture, autologous chondrocyte implantation, or osteochondral grafting. The steps involved in chondral defect repair generally include:
Chondral defect repair provides significant relief for patients suffering from cartilage damage, helping them regain joint function and return to their daily activities with improved comfort.
