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Cell therapy with ACT
'Autologous Cartilage Transplantation'
Principle
Cartilage cell transplantation is technically known as "autologous chondrocyte transplantation" (ACT) and is a surgical treatment method for repairing damaged joint cartilage. Healthy cartilage cells are removed from the patient, multiplied in the laboratory and then transplanted into the cartilage defect. The aim is for the cells to form new, durable cartilage tissue. With the introduction of autologous, cultured cells, the damaged area has chondrogenic cells available that enable the cartilage to regenerate.
Cartilage cell production & proliferation
In a minimally invasive procedure, an arthroscope is first inserted into the joint. With the help of this camera, the surgeon can examine the cartilage damage. A small amount of cartilage tissue is removed from an inconspicuous area of the joint and multiplied in a culture medium in the laboratory. This process can take several weeks to months.
Transplantation of cartilage cells
The cartilage cells multiplied in the laboratory are inserted into the cartilage defect. The cells are attached to the defect with a membrane or other fixative to prevent detachment.
Procedure
The ACT method is a surgical method in which your own (autologous) cartilage is harvested in a first procedure and is implanted in a second procedure approx. 4 weeks later after the cells have multiplied in the laboratory.
Areas of application
ACT is not suitable for every patient with cartilage damage. The decision for or against ACT should be made after a thorough examination by an experienced physician. There are alternative treatments for cartilage damage that may be more suitable in some cases.
Knee joint
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Isolated cartilage defects (e.g. after an accident)
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Cartilage damage as part of osteoarthritis (joint wear and tear)
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Revision operations after failed cartilage therapies
Shoulder joint
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Cartilage damage to the rotator cuff
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Cartilage defects in the joint socket
Elbow joint
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Cartilage damage to the humerus
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Cartilage defects on the ulna
Ankle joint
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Cartilage damage to the talus
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Cartilage defects on the calcaneus
Hip joint
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Cartilage damage to the femur
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Cartilage defects in the acetabulum of the hip joint