OSTEOCHONDRAL ALLOGRAFT IN TREATMENT OF KNEE ARTICULAR CARTILAGE INJURIES

Abstract

Osteochondral allografting in the knee has been performed for decades and continues to have a role in treating articular pathology of the knee that include both osseous and cartilage components. Osteochondral allografting is a one-stage procedure that can compensate for bone loss, restore normal architecture, and allow osseous integration. With regard to fresh grafts, basic science research has determined that culture medium storage at 4°C for less than 28 days is the optimum setting prior to implantation. The ability to use these prolonged-fresh grafts with high chondrocyte viability allows sufficient time for rigorous serologic and bacteriologic testing by tissue banks, which improves patient safety. Similarly, with additional time available before implantation, more centers will be able to obtain fresh grafts and meet the increasing demand. Despite these advances, high cost, and limited availability will continue to remain a challenge to both surgeons and patients.