Cartilage is a soft tissue that covers the space between bones in a joint.
It reduces friction and absorbs shock during joint movement.
In particular, knee cartilage plays a key role in smooth joint motion and in bearing body weight.
Because cartilage has little to no blood supply, it does not heal naturally when damaged, which can lead to pain and impaired joint function ultimately affecting daily life.
Causes of Cartilage Damage
Cartilage damage can result from trauma or repetitive joint use, and degenerative changes that occur with aging are a major cause.
Sports Injuries
Tearing or damage to cartilage during high-impact sports like soccer or basketball
Arthritis
Gradual cartilage wear caused by degenerative arthritis
Repetitive Joint Use
Prolonged, repetitive use of the knees leading to cartilage damage
Obesity
Excess body weight places heavy pressure on the knees, causing cartilage strain and damage
Symptoms of Cartilage Damage
01
Pain
SYMPTOM 01
Pain
Pain that occurs during joint movement, especially when bending or straightening the knee Worsening Pain
02
Swelling
SYMPTOM 02
Swelling
Swelling and inflammation in the damaged joint
03
Joint Stiffness
SYMPTOM 03
Joint Stiffness
Stiffness and limited range of motion in the joint
04
Joint Instability
SYMPTOM 04
Joint Instability
Detached cartilage can make the joint feel unstable or wobbly
05
Difficulty Walking
SYMPTOM 05
Difficulty Walking
Daily activities like walking may become challenging due to cartilage damage
What is Cartilage Regeneration Surgery?
Cartilage regeneration surgery restores or regenerates damaged cartilage to reduce knee pain and recover joint function.
Because cartilage does not regenerate on its own, surgical techniques are used to promote or replace it.
Goals of Cartilage Regeneration Surgery
Pain Relief in the knee
Restoration of Joint Function
Repair and Protection of the damaged cartilage area
Types of Cartilage Regeneration Surgery
The method depends on the extent of cartilage damage.
Microfracture
A technique that drills small holes into the bone beneath the cartilage to stimulate stem cell release from the bone marrow, encouraging cartilage regeneration
Simple procedure with fast recovery
Regenerated cartilage may be weaker than original cartilage
Collagen Enhancement Therapy (High-Concentration Collagen + Medical Adhesive)
Covers the damaged area with a collagen membrane and applies a high-viscosity collagen supplement
Helps directly form new cartilage and often combined with microfracture technique
