Mid-term results of autologous chondrocyte transplantation with and without carrier matrices

Autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT) has now been used for over 10 years for the treatment of multi-layer, circumscribed cartilage defects. It could be demonstrated in many studies that good results could be obtained with this method even in the longterm follow-up period. This so-called classical ACT is, however, technically demanding and involves a substantial intervention in the integrity of the joint. By the use of carrier matrices these disadvantages could be almost completely negated. In the present study it could be demonstrated that carrier matrices did not have any disadvantageous influences on the clinical result. Moreover, the results in the IKDC score were comparative to those obtained in the control group using classical ACT. The comparison of postoperative complications with those describe in the literature for classical ACT, revealed a low level of complications. Typical complications of classical ACT, such as hypertrophy and arthrofibrosis occurred only rarely.