Articular Cartilage Restoration
& MACI Procedures

About This Service

Articular cartilage restoration procedures are designed to repair and regenerate damaged joint cartilage to preserve long-term knee function and reduce pain. Cartilage does not naturally heal well on its own due to limited blood supply, which means untreated damage can progress and contribute to chronic pain, swelling, and early osteoarthritis.At ELITE Sports Medicine, we provide advanced cartilage restoration techniques including microfracture, osteochondral grafting, and MACI (Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation). MACI is a specialized regenerative procedure in which a patient’s own cartilage cells are cultured, expanded in a laboratory, and then implanted into the knee to restore smooth joint surface function.Patient-specific treatment planning is guided by MRI assessment, cartilage mapping, joint alignment evaluation, and activity level goals. Rehabilitation focuses on controlled loading, mobility restoration, progressive strengthening, and functional movement training to support safe return to daily activity and sport while protecting the repair site.

Common Conditions We Treat

Focal Articular Cartilage Defects

Localized cartilage damage causing pain and mechanical symptoms.

Chondral Flap or Delamination Injury

Peeling or detachment of cartilage from the underlying bone.

Osteochondral Defects (OCD Lesions)

Combined bone and cartilage loss often seen in active individuals.

Cartilage Wear from Previous Knee Trauma

Degeneration resulting from past injury or instability.

Cartilage Damage Associated with ACL or Meniscus Injury

Structural injury leading to joint surface compromise.

Post-Microfracture Cartilage Failure

Persistent symptoms after previous treatment requiring advanced repair.

Patellofemoral Cartilage Loss

Cartilage deterioration behind the kneecap causing anterior knee pain.

Trochlear Groove Cartilage Damage

Joint surface injury affecting patellar tracking and movement.

Benefits of This Treatment

  • Restored cartilage surface to improve joint function
  • Reduction of pain, swelling, and joint irritation during movement
  • Preservation of long-term knee health and performance
  • Minimized progression toward osteoarthritis
  • Improved load distribution across the joint surface
  • Enhanced mobility and return to higher-level activities
  • Cell-based regeneration using patient’s own tissue in MACI
  • Joint-specific rehabilitation tailored to protect the repair site
  • Evidence-based return-to-sport progression plans
  • Focus on restoring natural joint mechanics and durability

Ready to Begin Your Recovery?

We are here to help you move stronger, feel better, and return to the activities you enjoy.

Schedule Appointment

Common Patient Questions

What is MACI and how does it work?
MACI uses a patient’s own cultured cartilage cells, placed on a matrix, to regrow healthy cartilage in the damaged area.
Patients with focal cartilage damage, minimal arthritis, and active lifestyles typically benefit most.
Rehabilitation is structured and gradual. Full recovery may range from 6–12 months, depending on the size of the repair.
Yes — protected loading is necessary early on to allow proper healing of the repair site.
Yes. Restoring cartilage helps preserve joint health and may delay or prevent the need for future joint replacement surgery.