MACI knee surgery is a procedure designed to repair cartilage damage in the knee. Specifically, MACI, which stands for Matrix-induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation, is a treatment option indicated for the repair of single or multiple symptomatic, full-thickness cartilage defects of the adult knee, with or without bone involvement.
Understanding MACI: A Detailed Overview
MACI is a more advanced form of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). It involves using a patient's own cartilage cells (chondrocytes) to regenerate damaged cartilage.
How MACI Works:
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Cartilage Sample Collection: A small sample of healthy cartilage is taken from the patient's knee during an initial arthroscopic procedure.
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Cell Culturing: The cartilage cells are then sent to a specialized laboratory where they are cultured and multiplied.
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Cell Implantation: The cultured cells are seeded onto a collagen membrane. This membrane then is implanted into the area of cartilage damage in the knee.
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Cartilage Regeneration: Over time, the implanted cells regenerate new cartilage, filling the defect and alleviating pain.
Key Features of MACI:
- Uses the patient's own cells, reducing the risk of rejection.
- Helps regenerate cartilage, rather than just providing temporary relief.
- MACI can be delivered via mini-arthrotomy and is now approved for arthroscopic delivery in ≤4 cm2 accessible defects of the knee. This means it can be performed through smaller incisions, potentially leading to faster recovery.
- Suitable for treating full-thickness cartilage defects, which are more severe injuries extending through the entire cartilage layer.
- Addresses symptomatic defects (those causing pain and functional limitations).
Who is MACI for?
MACI is primarily intended for adult patients with:
- Full-thickness cartilage defects in the knee.
- Symptoms such as pain, swelling, and limited function.
- Defects that may or may not involve underlying bone.
Example Scenario:
Imagine a 35-year-old athlete who experiences a knee injury resulting in a full-thickness cartilage defect. After conservative treatments fail, their orthopedic surgeon may recommend MACI to repair the damage and restore function to the knee.
