Cartilage Injuries

What are cartilage injuries?

The ends of the bones in the knee joint are covered by articular cartilage — a smooth, durable surface that allows the joint to move freely with minimal friction and without pain. A cartilage injury refers to any damage or defect affecting this surface.

What causes cartilage defects?

Cartilage damage can occur due to:

What are the symptoms of cartilage defects?

Common symptoms of cartilage defects include:

Pain – typically worsens with activity, or towards the end of activity
Swelling – due to inflammation within the joint, often aggravated by use
Stiffness – difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee
Catching or locking – abnormal movement or mechanical restriction within the joint

How are cartilage defects diagnosed?

A cartilage injury is suspected based on a detailed history and physical examination. X-rays are performed to assess associated bone changes or alignment issues. An MRI is often performed to confirm the injury, determine its size and location, and identify any other injuries.

What is the treatment of cartilage defects?

The optimal treatment depends on multiple factors, including the size, location, and nature of the defect, as well as the patient’s symptoms, activity level, and overall knee health.

Non-operative treatment may be appropriate for some lesions and can include:

Surgical options are considered when symptoms persist or the defect is significant. Techniques include:

Debridement – removal of loose or damaged cartilage fragments to smooth the surface
Micro-fracture – creating small holes in the underlying bone to stimulate healing and fibrocartilage growth
Autologous chondrocyte implantation – harvesting the patient’s own cartilage cells, growing them in a lab, and then implanting them into the defect
Osteochondral autograft or allograft transfer – transplanting a plug of bone and cartilage from a non-weightbearing area of the patient’s own knee (autograft) or from a donor (allograft)
Osteotomy – realignment the knee (see knee malalignment) to offload the damaged area, performed alone or in combination with other cartilage procedures

Dr Free combines extensive international training and experience with the latest evidence-based surgical techniques in cartilage restoration. He delivers personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific cartilage injury, lifestyle, and recovery goals. Whether you are suffering from cartilage defects due to injury or early degenerative changes, Dr Free offers advanced cartilage repair and transplantation options aimed at relieving pain, improving function, and delaying or preventing progression to osteoarthritis.

03 9592 8362