ACI knee surgery, or Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation, is a procedure to repair damaged cartilage in the knee. It involves growing a patient's own cartilage cells and then implanting them into the damaged area.
Understanding ACI Procedure
The ACI procedure is a two-step process:
- Cartilage Cell Collection:
- A small sample of healthy cartilage cells (chondrocytes) is taken from the patient’s knee during an initial arthroscopic procedure.
- Cell Multiplication:
- These cells are then sent to a laboratory where they are grown and multiplied to increase the cell number over approximately four weeks.
- Implantation:
- The multiplied cells are then surgically implanted into the damaged area of the knee through a special technique.
Key Aspects of ACI
- Autologous: The term "autologous" means the cells come from the patient's own body, reducing the risk of rejection.
- Chondrocytes: These are the specialized cells responsible for maintaining cartilage health.
- Cartilage Repair: This surgery aims to restore the smooth cartilage surface of the knee, reducing pain and improving mobility.
- Two-Step Procedure: ACI involves an initial cartilage collection and a second implant procedure, usually separated by about four weeks to allow for cell multiplication.
Benefits of ACI
- Cartilage Regeneration: ACI can regenerate new cartilage, which differs from procedures that only address symptoms.
- Improved Knee Function: By restoring damaged cartilage, ACI can reduce pain and improve knee function.
- Reduced Risk of Rejection: Since the cells come from the patient's body, there's a reduced risk of immune rejection.
- Alternative for Younger Patients: ACI is often considered for younger, more active patients with specific types of cartilage damage.
Limitations of ACI
- Two-stage Procedure: ACI involves two separate surgeries, which can be a disadvantage for some patients.
- Recovery Period: Recovery after ACI can take several months and usually involves a structured rehabilitation program.
- Not Suitable for All Cartilage Problems: ACI is typically recommended for focal cartilage defects and may not be suitable for generalized osteoarthritis.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation |
| Cells Used | Patient’s own cartilage cells (chondrocytes) |
| Procedure Steps | Collection, Multiplication, Implantation |
| Goal | Repair damaged cartilage in the knee |
| Recovery | Can take several months with structured rehabilitation |
| Risk of Rejection | Low, as cells are autologous |
