Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty

Arthroscopic OATS chondroplasty repairs cartilage, restoring joint function with minimally invasive techniques.

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Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty Services

Comprehensive Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty care with advanced monitoring and safety protocols

The Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System (OATS) chondroplasty is an advanced arthroscopic technique designed to repair damaged articular cartilage in the knee. Cartilage injuries are common in athletes and active individuals and may result from trauma, twisting injuries, or gradual wear and tear. Because cartilage has little to no blood supply, it cannot heal on its own, often leading to pain, swelling, and restricted mobility.

Arthroscopic OATS chondroplasty addresses this challenge by transplanting healthy cartilage and underlying bone from a non-weight-bearing part of the patient’s knee into the damaged area. This restores a smooth joint surface, improves mobility, and helps prevent further degeneration.

Why Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty Is Recommended

This procedure is especially effective in patients with:

  • Focal cartilage defects – Localized cartilage loss due to injury or repetitive stress.
  • Active lifestyles – Athletes or physically active individuals needing durable joint function.
  • Persistent symptoms – Pain, swelling, or instability that does not improve with physiotherapy, injections, or medications.

Prevention goals – Early treatment to protect against progressive arthritis and long-term joint deterioration.

The Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty Procedure

  1. Preoperative Evaluation
    The process begins with a thorough clinical assessment, including MRI or X-rays, to determine the size, depth, and location of the cartilage defect.
  2. Arthroscopic Access
    Using small keyhole incisions, an arthroscope is inserted to provide a clear view of the joint. Specialized instruments allow precise work without damaging surrounding tissues.
  3. Harvesting the Graft
    Healthy cartilage and subchondral bone are collected from a non-weight-bearing region of the patient’s knee.
  4. Preparing the Defect Site
    The damaged cartilage is carefully cleaned, and the site is contoured to receive the graft.
  5. Graft Placement
    The harvested plug is precisely fitted into the defect, aligning seamlessly with surrounding cartilage to create a stable, smooth surface.
  6. Final Check and Closure
    The surgeon confirms graft stability and smooth knee motion before closing the small incisions.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Successful healing after arthroscopic OATS chondroplasty requires a phased rehabilitation plan:

  • Initial Protection: Patients use crutches for several weeks to keep weight off the repaired area.
  • Controlled Motion: Early physiotherapy emphasizes gentle range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility.
  • Strengthening Phase: Gradual strengthening of the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles improves stability.
  • Return to Activities: Low-impact activities may resume within 3–4 months, while full sports participation usually takes 6–9 months.

Benefits of Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty

  • Restores a natural cartilage surface for smooth, pain-free movement.
  • Uses the patient’s own tissue, minimizing rejection risks.
  • Achieves long-lasting results in carefully selected patients.
  • Helps delay or prevent the development of arthritis.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, graft failure, stiffness, or incomplete pain relief. However, with precise diagnosis, advanced arthroscopic technique, and committed rehabilitation, outcomes are highly successful.

Summary

arthroscopic OATS chondroplasty is a minimally invasive, highly effective procedure for patients with localized cartilage damage. By restoring natural cartilage with healthy autografts, it not only relieves pain but also preserves long-term knee function and protects against degenerative changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Arthroscopic OATS Chondroplasty and our services

The arthroscopic OATS procedure (Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System) is a minimally invasive surgery to repair damaged cartilage in the knee. Small healthy cartilage plugs are harvested from non-weight-bearing areas and transplanted into damaged regions. This technique restores smooth joint surfaces, reduces pain, and improves knee function. Being minimally invasive, it promotes faster recovery, less scarring, and better outcomes. Patients often regain full mobility and stability, allowing them to return to daily activities and sports with confidence.

Arthroscopic knee chondroplasty approach is a minimally invasive procedure to smooth damaged cartilage surfaces and remove loose tissue inside the knee joint. A tiny camera and specialized instruments are inserted through small incisions, allowing precise repair while preserving healthy tissue. This approach reduces pain, swelling, and recovery time compared to open surgery. Most patients regain knee function quickly and can resume light activities within weeks, while full strength and flexibility return gradually with guided physiotherapy and proper post-operative care.

The patella OATS procedure targets cartilage defects specifically on the kneecap (patella). Healthy cartilage is harvested from non-weight-bearing areas and transplanted to the damaged patellar surface, restoring smooth motion and reducing pain. Performed arthroscopically, it minimizes tissue trauma and accelerates recovery. Patients experience improved stability, knee function, and the ability to return to sports or active lifestyles safely. With proper rehabilitation and adherence to post-surgery guidelines, outcomes are highly positive, ensuring long-term joint health and mobility.

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