[Minced cartilage procedure for the treatment of acetabular cartilage lesions of the hip joint].

OBJECTIVE

Treatment of acetabular cartilage defects using autologous cartilage fragments.

INDICATIONS

Acetabular cartilage damage (1-6 cm) associated with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS).

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Advanced osteoarthritis (≥ 2 according to Tönnis) and extensive acetabular cartilage damage > 6 cm. Lack of labral containment due to irreparable labral damage.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Arthroscopic preparation of the acetabular cartilage damage and removal of unstable cartilage fragments using a 4.0 mm shaver, which minces the cartilage fragments. If necessary, additional cartilage harvesting over the CAM morphology requiring resection. Collection of the cartilage fragments using Graftnet and augmentation with autologous conditioned plasma (ACP). Treatment of associated pathologies such as CAM morphology, pincer morphology, and labral refixation or reconstruction. Implantation of cartilage mass and remodeling into the defect zone. Final sealing with autologous fibrin.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Postoperatively, weight bearing is restricted to 20 kg and range of motion to 90° of flexion for 6 weeks. This is supplemented by passive movement using a continuous passive motion (CPM) device.

RESULTS

Since 2021, 13 patients treated with the described method were followed up for at least 6 months. A significant increase in the International Hip Outcome Tool (iHot)-12 and a significant reduction of pain were observed. No severe complications occurred.