ACT

In ACT, i.e. autologous chondrocyte transplantation or autologous cartilage cell transplantation, cartilage cells (chondrocytes) are taken from the joint. During the removal, a site in the joint is selected that is not heavily loaded during movement. The removed cells are then cultivated in the laboratory.

The grown cartilage is then reinserted into the defective area of the joint. The success of this procedure depends on various factors. Firstly, the size of the defect is decisive.

The smaller the defect, the greater the chance that the cartilage defect can be repaired. Secondly, this method is particularly successful with younger patients. Furthermore, the success of the healing process depends on the location of the cartilage damage. Furthermore, the success of the treatment depends on the adherence to post-operative aftercare with gradually increased stress and physiotherapeutic exercises. This means that too early and heavy loading of the joint should be avoided so that the cartilage introduced can grow in.

Is it possible to build cartilage with hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the joint in cases of cartilage damage. When it is in the joint, it does not build up cartilage, but is intended to improve the gliding ability of the joint partners as a so-called lubricant and to lay itself protectively over the defective cartilage areas. This can alleviate complaints.

Direct cartilage formation is therefore not possible. The effectiveness of treatment with hyaluron injections is controversial. It is said that the treatment has a fifty-fifty chance of success.

The success should be particularly high if the arthrosis is not yet far advanced, i.e. the cartilage defects are not yet large. The beginning of symptom relief also varies greatly between those affected. Some patients feel pain relief after the first or second injection, others only after the fifth. In addition, the hyaluronic acid injections are a so-called IGeL service, i.e. they are not paid for by health insurance companies. Whether treatment for osteoarthritis makes sense should therefore be discussed individually with the doctor treating the patient.