OATS Cartilage Repair Animation

Omaha Knee OATS Cartilage Repair Surgery Information by Dr. Darren Keiser MD

OATS Cartilage Repair Surgery Information

Omaha OATS Cartilage Repair Surgery Information by Dr. Darren Keiser MD

OATS Cartilage Repair SurgeryThis knee procedure replaces areas of damaged cartilage with grafts of the patient’s own healthy hyaline cartilage. The procedure, also known as mosaicplasty, is performed using small instruments through incisions on the sides of the knee. The surgeon uses a small video camera called an arthroscope to see inside the joint and guide the instruments.

Articular cartilage is the smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones where they come together to form joints. Healthy cartilage in our joints makes it easier to move. It allows the bones to glide over each other with very little friction.

Articular cartilage can be damaged by injury or normal wear and tear. Because cartilage does not heal itself well, doctors have developed surgical techniques to stimulate the growth of new cartilage. Restoring articular cartilage can relieve pain and allow better function. Most importantly, it can delay or prevent the onset of arthritis.

Surgical techniques to repair damaged cartilage are still evolving. It is hoped that as more is learned about cartilage and the healing response, surgeons will be better able to restore an injured joint.

Most candidates for articular cartilage restoration are young adults with a single injury, or lesion. Older patients, or those with many lesions in one joint, are less likely to benefit from the surgery.
The knee is the most common area for cartilage restoration. Ankle and shoulder problems may also be treated.

Omaha Knee Information by Dr. Darren Keiser MD

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