The process of arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai begins with the removal of a small sample of healthy cartilage from a non-weight-bearing area of the patient’s joint during an arthroscopic procedure. These chondrocytes are then cultured and multiplied in a laboratory, a process that may take several weeks. Once an adequate number of cells are obtained, a second arthroscopic procedure is performed to implant the cultured chondrocytes into the damaged area.
ACI offers several advantages over traditional cartilage repair methods. Because it uses a patient’s own cells, there is minimal risk of immune rejection. Additionally, ACI is particularly suitable for treating larger cartilage defects that may not respond well to other treatments like microfracture surgery. It can also potentially delay or even prevent the progression of osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint disease associated with cartilage damage.
Pre-Operative Preparation for Arthroscopic ACI Cartilage Transplant in Chennai
Before undergoing an arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai, patients typically go through a series of preparatory steps:
Medical Evaluation: Your orthopedic surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, review of medical history, and possibly imaging tests (MRI or X-rays) to assess the extent of cartilage damage.
Discussion and Informed Consent: During your consultation with the surgeon, you will receive a detailed explanation of the procedure, including an overview of its associated risks, benefits, and alternative treatment options. This will provide you with an opportunity to ask any questions you may have and make an informed decision about granting consent for the surgery.
Medication Review: Inform your healthcare team about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and prescription medications. Some medications have to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the procedure.
Pre-Surgery Instructions: Your surgeon may provide specific instructions regarding fasting before the arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai, which may include not eating or drinking anything for a certain number of hours before the procedure.
Physical Therapy: In some cases, your surgeon may recommend pre-operative physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve joint stability.
Home Preparation: Ensure that your home is set up for your post-operative recovery. This may involve arranging for help with daily tasks, acquiring necessary equipment (crutches, ice packs, etc.), and making your living space easily accessible.
The arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai typically involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: You will be given either general anesthesia or a regional nerve block to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
Arthroscopy: Small incisions are made around the joint, and an arthroscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) is inserted to provide a clear view of the damaged cartilage.
Chondrocyte Harvesting: A small piece of healthy cartilage is harvested from a non-weight-bearing area of your joint.
Laboratory Culturing: The harvested cartilage is sent to a laboratory where chondrocytes (cartilage cells) are isolated and cultured to increase their numbers.
Chondrocyte Implantation: The cultured chondrocytes are then implanted into the damaged area using a special scaffold or membrane to promote cartilage growth.
Closure: The incisions are closed, and the joint is typically immobilized with a brace or splint after the arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai.
Recovery and rehabilitation after an arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant are crucial for the success of the procedure. Here’s what to expect:
Immediate Post-Op: You will spend some time in the recovery room before being moved to a hospital room or discharged home. Pain management may be provided as needed.
Immobilization: You may need to wear a brace or use crutches to protect the joint and minimize weight-bearing for a specified period.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is a vital part of recovery. Your therapist will work with you to gradually restore joint mobility, strength, and function. This typically begins a few weeks after arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai.
Medications: You’ll receive pain medications and possibly antibiotics to prevent infection. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for medication use.
Follow-Up Appointments: You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your rehabilitation plan.
Activity Graduation: Your surgeon and physical therapist will guide you on gradually increasing your activity level. Return to sports or high-impact activities may take several months or longer.
Long-Term Monitoring: Continue to follow up with your healthcare team for long-term monitoring of your joint health. Your doctor may recommend periodic imaging to assess cartilage growth and joint function.
Rehabilitation is a critical component of the arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai, focusing on patient recovery and optimizing joint function. A personalized physical therapy plan is developed, commencing within a few weeks post-surgery. This therapy aims to rebuild strength, flexibility, and joint function. Patients gradually increase weight-bearing on the treated joint as instructed by their healthcare team.
Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential for monitoring progress, addressing concerns, and adapting the rehabilitation plan. The timeline for returning to sports and regular activities varies by individual but may take several months to a year to achieve full joint function and strength.
The success rates of arthroscopic ACI cartilage transplant in Chennai can differ among patients due to factors like the extent of cartilage damage and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. For personalized guidance related to a specific case, patients are encouraged to consult with their healthcare team.
