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Cartilage plays a vital role in cushioning joints and allowing smooth, pain-free movement. Unlike other tissues in the body, cartilage has very limited capacity to heal itself after injury. Damage caused by trauma, repetitive stress, or early arthritis can lead to persistent pain, swelling, and restricted mobility. For patients where traditional treatments are not effective, Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) has emerged as an advanced and innovative surgical solution. This technique uses the body’s own healthy cartilage cells to repair and regenerate damaged areas, offering the potential for long-term pain relief and improved joint function.
ACI is a two-step surgical procedure that uses a patient’s own cartilage cells (autologous chondrocytes) to restore damaged joint surfaces. Unlike temporary treatments that only reduce pain or symptoms, ACI focuses on repairing the actual cartilage damage by stimulating new cartilage growth.
Although most commonly performed in the knee joint, ACI may also be used in other weight-bearing or high-stress joints such as the ankle, hip, or shoulder. It is generally recommended for younger or active patients with localized cartilage damage who want to preserve their natural joint and delay or avoid joint replacement surgery.
The process of ACI takes place in two stages:
Recovery after ACI requires patience and strict adherence to rehabilitation protocols:
The success of ACI largely depends on patient commitment to rehabilitation and following post-operative guidelines carefully.
Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) represents a significant advancement in cartilage repair technology. By using a patient’s own healthy cells to restore damaged cartilage, it offers the possibility of long-term pain relief, improved joint function, and better quality of life. While not suitable for every individual, ACI is an excellent option for carefully selected patients who wish to maintain natural joint health and delay more invasive procedures like joint replacement. With proper rehabilitation, ACI provides hope for active and pain-free living.
Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) is a two-step surgical procedure used to repair damaged articular cartilage, typically in the knee. In the first step, a small sample of healthy cartilage is harvested from the patient. These cartilage cells (chondrocytes) are then cultured in a laboratory to multiply. In the second step, the expanded chondrocytes are implanted into the damaged area of the joint, promoting the growth of new cartilage. ACI is often considered for young, active patients with isolated cartilage defects who wish to avoid joint replacement.
The success rate of ACI varies depending on factors such as the size and location of the cartilage defect, patient age, and adherence to post-operative rehabilitation. Overall, studies indicate that ACI has a high success rate, with approximately 80% to 90% of patients experiencing significant improvement in pain relief and joint function. However, outcomes can differ, and some patients may require revision procedures over time.
The cost of ACI surgery varies widely depending on the country, hospital, and complexity of the procedure. On average, it can range from $15,000 to $40,000 USD, including hospital fees, surgeon charges, and rehabilitation. Additional costs may include diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and medications. Insurance coverage can reduce out-of-pocket expenses depending on the plan and location.
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