Cartilage Replacement in Chennai

What is Cartilage Replacement?

Cartilage Replacement, also known as cartilage restoration or resurfacing, is a surgical procedure that repairs or regenerates damaged knee cartilage to relieve pain and improve mobility. Cartilage acts as a smooth, protective layer covering the bones in a joint, allowing friction-free movement. When it wears out due to injury or arthritis, patients experience pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Cartilage replacement aims to restore the joint surface by transplanting healthy cartilage cells or using advanced grafts to rebuild the damaged area, preserving the natural knee structure.

When is Cartilage Replacement recommended?

Doctors recommend cartilage replacement when joint damage is localized and not severe enough to require total knee replacement. It is ideal for:

• Patients with cartilage loss caused by sports injuries or trauma.
• Young or middle-aged adults with early-stage osteoarthritis.
• Individuals experiencing persistent knee pain despite physiotherapy or medications.
• Those who want to delay or avoid full joint replacement.

The surgery can target small to medium defects, especially in the knee joint, and is most effective when ligaments and bone alignment remain intact.

What are the benefits of Cartilage Replacement?

• Joint preservation: Restores damaged cartilage without removing the entire joint.
• Natural movement: Retains normal biomechanics and flexibility.
• Pain relief: Reduces friction between bones for smoother motion.
• Delay in knee replacement: Prevents progression to advanced arthritis.
• Faster recovery: Shorter hospital stay and minimal downtime.
• Long-term benefit: Encourages natural tissue regrowth for durable results.

How is Cartilage Replacement performed?

Cartilage replacement procedures are typically performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Depending on the extent of damage, one of the following methods may be used:

• Microfracture: Small holes are created to stimulate natural cartilage growth.
• Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI): Healthy cartilage cells are harvested, grown in a lab, and re-implanted.
• Osteochondral Grafting: Healthy cartilage from another joint surface is transplanted to the damaged site.

The surgery usually takes 1–2 hours and involves advanced imaging to ensure precision. After surgery, physiotherapy helps restore strength and joint motion.

What is the recovery process like?

Patients can typically go home within a day or two. The leg may be supported in a brace initially to protect the healing cartilage. Weight-bearing is gradually introduced over 4–6 weeks, followed by physiotherapy to restore strength and flexibility.

By the 3rd month, most patients return to light physical activities, while complete recovery may take 4–6 months depending on the technique used and the patient’s overall health.

How long does it take to recover from Cartilage Replacement?

Recovery varies based on the method used:

• Microfracture: 3–4 months for full recovery.
• Autologous chondrocyte implantation: 6–9 months for complete healing.
• Osteochondral grafting: 4–6 months for optimal function.
  Adhering to post-surgery exercise routines and avoiding high-impact activities ensures long-lasting joint health and better outcomes.

Which is the best hospital for Cartilage Replacement in Chennai?

Shri Bone & Joint Clinic is recognized as one of the best hospitals for Cartilage Replacement in Chennai, offering advanced regenerative treatments for joint preservation. The clinic’s team of experienced Orthopedic Specialists in Chennai uses modern imaging and minimally invasive techniques to ensure precision and faster recovery.

Depending on the extent of cartilage damage, the clinic also performs Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement and Unicondylar Knee Replacement in Chennai for cases where joint replacement becomes necessary in localized compartments.

Who is the best doctor for Cartilage Replacement in Chennai?

Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy, senior orthopedic surgeon at Shri Bone & Joint Clinic, is well-known for his expertise in knee restoration and replacement surgeries. He has successfully performed numerous Total Knee Replacement in Chennai, Titanium Knee Replacement in Chennai, and Jiffy Knee Replacement procedures, achieving excellent long-term results.

His extensive experience also includes Bilateral Knee Replacement in Chennai, Unilateral Knee Replacement in Chennai, and Patella Replacement in Chennai, providing patients with a complete spectrum of advanced knee care solutions.

What is the cost of Cartilage Replacement in Chennai?

The cost of cartilage replacement in Chennai depends on the treatment method, implant or graft used, and hospital facilities. Typical cost estimates include:

• Consultation & diagnostic imaging: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000
• Microfracture technique: ₹80,000 – ₹1.5 lakhs
• Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI): ₹2.5 – ₹4 lakhs
• Osteochondral grafting: ₹1.5 – ₹3 lakhs
• Post-surgery physiotherapy: ₹15,000 – ₹30,000

Some insurance policies may cover parts of the procedure. For advanced precision or combined treatments, options such as Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery, Conformis Knee Replacement, and Laser Knee Surgery in Chennai are also available for patients needing enhanced alignment and faster recovery.