Mosaicplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat cartilage defects in the knee joint. It involves harvesting healthy cartilage from a non-weight-bearing area of the knee, and transplanting it to the area of the knee with the defect. The procedure is often used to treat small- to medium-sized defects, and can provide effective pain relief and improve joint function.
Cartilage is the tough, smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint, allowing them to glide smoothly over each other during movement. Cartilage can become damaged due to injury, wear and tear, or underlying medical conditions. Cartilage defects can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected joint. Left untreated, cartilage defects can lead to osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease.
Mosaicplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed arthroscopically. During the procedure, small incisions are made in the knee, and a small cylindrical piece of healthy cartilage is harvested from a non-weight-bearing area, such as the outer edge of the knee. The harvested cartilage, along with a small piece of underlying bone, is then transplanted to the area of the defect. Multiple pieces of cartilage and bone can be harvested and transplanted, creating a mosaic-like pattern that gives the procedure its name.
Mosaicplasty has several advantages over other cartilage repair procedures. Because healthy cartilage is used to fill the defect, the procedure provides a more natural and durable solution than synthetic or artificial implants. The procedure also requires minimal incisions, which reduces the risk of infection and shortens recovery time.
However, mosaicplasty is not suitable for all patients. It is most effective for treating small- to medium-sized defects, and is not recommended for patients with advanced osteoarthritis or widespread cartilage damage. In addition, the procedure can result in donor site morbidity, or pain and limited mobility at the site where the healthy cartilage was harvested.
Overall, mosaicplasty is a safe and effective procedure for treating cartilage defects in the knee. It can provide long-lasting pain relief and improve joint function, allowing patients to return to their daily activities with less discomfort. If you are experiencing knee pain and think you may have a cartilage defect, it is important to consult with an orthopedic specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
