Cartilage Restoration (Osteochondral Allograft)

Overview

Cartilage restoration resurfaces a focal area of damaged cartilage to relieve pain and protect the knee from progressing to arthritis. Osteochondral allograft transplantation replaces the damaged cartilage and underlying bone with a matched donor graft.

What the Procedure Involves

• Transplantation of a matched cartilage-and-bone (osteochondral) graft into the defect
• Restoration of a smooth joint surface
• Treatment of alignment or ligament issues as needed
• Often an outpatient procedure

Who It's For

• Focal cartilage defects in younger, active patients
• Damage that would otherwise progress to arthritis
• Failed prior cartilage treatment

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Weight-bearing is protected while the graft incorporates, with low-impact conditioning first and a gradual return to impact and sport typically over 9–12 months.

This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. The right procedure depends on your individual diagnosis, anatomy, and goals. Kevin O'Donnell, MD serves Coral Gables, Miami, Brickell, Pinecrest, Coconut Grove.