Figure 1.

Orientational flow chart for reconstructive surgical treatment for cartilage defects, depending on thickness and extent

Reconstructive surgical procedures are indicated in cartilage defects that remain symptomatic in spite of sufficient conservative and medical therapy. Further indicative parameters include localization, mechanical leg axis, knee instability, and the patient’s age. Mechanical symptoms include catching or locking. ACI, autologous chondrocyte implantation; MST, marrow stimulation techniques; OCT, osteochondral transplants