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Updated: Mar 8, 2026
Matrix-assisted Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation for Remodeling and Repair of Chondral Defects in a Rabbit Model
Published on: May 21, 2013
A randomized controlled trial demonstrating sustained benefit of Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis over
Martin Volz1, Jens Schaumburger2, Hubert Frick1
1Sportklinik Ravensburg, Ravensburg, Germany.
Purpose:
Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis (AMIC®) utilizing a type I/III collagen membrane was compared with microfracture (MFx) alone in focal cartilage lesions of the knee at one, two and five years.
Methods:
Forty-seven patients (aged 37 ± 10 years, mean defect size 3.6 ± 1.6 cm2) were randomized and treated either with MFx, with sutured or glued AMIC® in a prospective multicentre clinical trial.
Results:
After improvement for the first two years in all subgroups, a progressive and significant score degradation was observed in the MFx group, while all functional parameters remained stable for least five years in the AMIC® groups. At two and five years, MRI defect filling was more complete in the AMIC® groups. No treatment-related adverse events were reported.
Conclusions:
AMIC® is an effective cartilage repair procedure in the knee resulting in stable clinical results significantly better than the MFx group at five years.
