RESEARCH & ARTICLES

Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation as a Salvage Procedure After Failed Index Cartilage Surgery of the Knee: A Systematic Review

Purpose: To evaluate outcomes and failure rates of osteochondral allografts after failed knee cartilage repair. 

Summary:

• This review aimed to evaluate the reoperation rate, failure rate, and clinical outcomes of OCA transplantation performed as a salvage procedure following failed primary cartilage repair. 
• The overall failure rate of secondary OCA was 16.6%, with a reoperation rate of 42.8%. Reported graft survival rates following secondary OCA ranged from 79% to 87.8% at 5 years, and from 61% to 82% at 10 years. 

JRF Takeaways: Management of osteochondral defects following failed cartilage repair or restoration remains without well-established guidelines. OCAs offer a viable salvage option for surgeons treating patients with unsuccessful index cartilage procedures. 

Click here for complete abstract. 

Authors: Varun Gopinatth, BS, Sina Tartibi, BBA, Matthew V. Smith, MD, Matthew J. Matava, MD, Robert H. Brophy, MD, Derrick M. Knapik, MD

Published: The American Journal of Sports Medicine

Institution: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri