Biologic principles of minced cartilage implantation: a narrative review

Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2023 Jun;143(6):3259-3269. doi: 10.1007/s00402-022-04692-y. Epub 2022 Nov 16.

Abstract

Cartilage tissue has a very limited ability to regenerate. Symptomatic cartilage lesions are currently treated by various cartilage repair techniques. Multiple treatment techniques have been proposed in the last 30 years. Nevertheless, no single technique is accepted as a gold standard. Minced cartilage implantation is a newer technique that has garnered increasing attention. This procedure is attractive because it is autologous, can be performed in a single surgery, and is therefore given it is cost-effective. This narrative review provides an overview of the biological potential of current cartilage regenerative repair techniques with a focus on the translational evidence of minced cartilage implantation.

Keywords: Articular cartilage; Cartilage fragmentation; Cartilage regeneration; Chondron; Micronized cartilage; Minced cartilage implantation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biological Products*
  • Cartilage, Articular* / pathology
  • Cartilage, Articular* / surgery
  • Chondrocytes
  • Humans
  • Regeneration
  • Transplantation, Autologous

Substances

  • Biological Products