Biological approaches for cartilage repair

Abstract

The social impact of bone and cartilage pathologies entails high costs in terms of therapeutic treatments and loss of income. As a result, the current research trend includes preventive interventions and therapeutic solutions that can lead to an enhancement of tissue regeneration and the reduction of degenerative mechanisms. Many options have been made available to address problems regarding cartilage damage, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Several studies are currently in progress to clarify some of the questions that remain unanswered about the long-term durability of these procedures and the possible modifications that can be made to achieve better results. Biotechnology is progressing at a rapid pace that allows the introductions of several products for clinical application; however, randomized, prospective studies for these innovations should be conducted to validate the safety and efficacy of cartilage regeneration.