[Autologous cartilage cell transplantation. The goal is pain relief and restored joint function]

Chondral and osteochondral damage is a common result of trauma to the joints. The capacity of cartilage to heal such damage is poor, and repetitive wear on joint surfaces that do not heal results in impaired joint function, which can culminate in full blown arthrosis. Thus, it is important to improve our knowledge of cartilage regenerative potential, and develop methods to forestall progression to arthrosis by promoting the early healing of cartilage damage. Autologous cartilage cell transplantation may be a mean of healing cartilage damage. A method of cultivating autologous chondrocytes for transplantation in the treatment of isolated damage to articular cartilage of the knee is presented in the article.