Cell-Based Treatment for the Management of Articular Cartilage Injuries Where Are We?

Articular cartilage is a specialized tissue that lines the surface of joints. Injuries to articular cartilage pose challenges due to poor healing potential. Focal cartilage defects are typically the result of high impact or repetitive loads to the articular surface. They tend to occur in the younger, active population and have been shown to cause swelling, pain, and joint dysfunction. Although the natural history of these lesions has never been definitively elucidated in the literature, clinical experience suggests that if left untreated, these lesions will demonstrate an inability to heal and may lead to prolonged increased articular peak stresses, which in turn may lead to pain and significant limitations in the future. The purpose of the present review is to provide the most current treatment options for these injuries and review the literature supporting their use.