Articular cartilage repair: procedures versus products

Abstract

This review discusses the current perspectives and practices regarding the treatment of articular cartilage injury. Specifically, the authors have delineated and examined articular cartilage repair techniques as either surgical procedures or manufactured products. Although both methodologies are used to treat articular cartilage injury, there are obvious advantages and disadvantages to the application of both, with the literature providing few recommendations on the most suitable regimen for the patient and surgeon. In recent times, cell-based tissue engineering products, predominantly autologous chondrocyte implantation, have been the subject of much research and have become clinically popular. Herein, we review the most used procedures and products in cartilage repair, compare and contrast their outcomes, and evaluate the issues that must be overcome in order to improve patient efficacy in the future.