Overview
Focal cartilage injuries are areas of damage to the smooth joint surface that, untreated, can progress toward arthritis. Preservation and restoration techniques aim to protect the joint, especially in younger, active patients.
Common Symptoms
- Localized knee pain
- Swelling with activity
- Catching or a sense of a loose fragment
- Pain with impact or stairs
Causes & Risk Factors
- Acute injury or impact
- Prior ligament or meniscus injury
- Repetitive loading
Treatment Options
- Activity modification and injections to offload the area
- Cartilage restoration procedures
- Osteochondral transfer for select lesions
Procedure we perform for thisCartilage Restoration (Osteochondral Allograft) →
Recovery & What to Expect
Restoration procedures protect against early arthritis; recovery is deliberate to allow the surface to heal, typically returning to sport over 6–9 months.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual diagnosis and goals. Kevin O'Donnell, MD serves Coral Gables, Miami, Brickell, Pinecrest, Coconut Grove.