Articular Cartilage Surgery

Articular Cartilage Surgery Overview

The most commonly performed articular cartilage surgery techniques for chondral defects are chondroplasty (cartilage removal), microfracture (holes made in bones that release stem cells from the marrow), and Osteochondral autograft transfer system (OATS) surgery. Dr. Peter Millett will choose the appropriate chondral defects surgery based on size of the defect, as well as the location in the knee, age and weight of the patient, activity level of the patient, and other assessments surrounding the medical condition of the knee.

Chondral Defects Surgery Techniques

Shaving or Debridement Surgery

During this arthroscopic surgery, Dr. Millett will smooth the shredded or frayed articular cartilage. This common treatment is intended for patients who have cartilage defect that has not worn down to bone. It leads to satisfactory results in over 75% of patients. For patients with arthritis and osteoarthritis, this articular cartilage surgery works well when other resurfacing techniques are not appropriate. Ideally, the smoothing and shaving away of the damaged cartilage helps to ultimately decrease friction and irritation, thus reducing the symptoms of swelling, noise, and pain.

Microfracture Surgery

Microfracture is a well-accepted and successful technique that encourages the growth of new cartilage into the knee chondral defect. This procedure is performed arthroscopically and is a common knee surgery for patients with damage through the full thickness of articular cartilage (down to bone).. During the surgery, the base of the damaged area is scraped to create a bed of bleeding bone. Causing the bone to bleed is useful because intrinsic properties of blood help with healing. Dr. Millett will then poke very tiny holes into the defect with a special instrument. This promotes blood vessel and bone marrow growth inside the defect and can lead to the production of new fibrocartilage. This technique is most useful in treating smaller cartilage defects.

OATS

OATS, osteochondral autograft transfer system, is a technique that involves replacing damaged joint cartilage (in high weight bearing areas) with healthy cartilage and bone (from lower weight bearing areas). This is an arthroscopic or open procedure done using either one’s own healthy tissue or tissue transplanted from a cadaver. Small holes are drilled into the damaged cartilage area. Then, bone and cartilage grafts are inserted into the defective area to re-surface the damaged cartilage. It is highly effective.

Are you a candidate for articular cartilage surgery?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review ($250).

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

After Articular Cartilage Surgery

Rehabilitation after knee surgery can be a lengthy process involving a limitation of activities. Typically a period of limited or no weight bearing will be needed. Physical therapy and rest will need to take place for a period of months. Specific rehabilitation will vary according to each patient’s needs and you must adhere to your own protocol as established by Dr. Millett and your physical therapist.

To learn more about the various articular cartilage surgery techniques, or to determine if you are a candidate for chondral defects surgery, please contact the orthopedic office of Dr. Peter Millett.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

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