Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation of the Knee: Multicenter Experience and Minimum 3-Year Follow-Up

Abstract

To determine clinical outcome and graft survivorship in patients undergoing autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for the repair of chondral defects of the knee. Prospective cohort study. 19 centers in the United States. 50 patients (37 males, 13 females). Mean age was 36 years (range: 19–53). Defects were grade III or IV with a mean size of 4.2 cm 2 . All patients had a minimum of 36 months postoperative follow-up. Clinician and patient evaluation based on the modified Cincinnati Knee Rating System. Graft failure was defined as replacement or removal of the graft due to mechanical symptoms or pain. Clinician and patient evaluation indicated median improvements of 4 and 5 points, respectively, at 36 months following ACI (p These results of this study indicate excellent graft survivorship using ACI as well as substantial improvement in functional outcome.