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Osteochondral Grafting in India

Cartilage restoration using bone-cartilage plugs for defects.

Overview

Osteochondral grafting treats cartilage defects in knee/ankle by transferring healthy bone-cartilage plugs (OATS technique). Dr. Kumar achieves 85% good-excellent results in young active patients with focal defects.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Deep knee or ankle pain

Joint swelling after activity

Catching or locking sensation

Cartilage defect from injury or disease

Pain with weight bearing

Limited range of motion

Joint instability

Failed conservative treatment

MRI showing cartilage damage

Young active patients seeking repair

Procedure Details

Duration

1-3 hours

Anesthesia

General Anesthesia

Preparation for Surgery

Pre-operative imaging and assessment.

Surgical Steps

1

General anesthesia

2

Arthroscopy to identify defect

3

Measurement of lesion size

4

Donor site preparation (from non-weight bearing area)

5

Cylindrical plug harvest with bone and cartilage

6

Recipient site preparation

7

Plug insertion into defect

8

Press-fit technique for stability

9

Multiple plugs if large defect

10

Verification of graft flush with surface

11

Wound closure

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-2

Initial healing

Rest and wound care

Month 1-3

Rehabilitation

Physical therapy and mobility

Month 4-6

Recovery

Return to activities

Tips for Faster Recovery

Partial weight bearing for 6-8 weeks

Use crutches as directed

Continuous passive motion machine helpful

Physical therapy for range of motion

Avoid impact activities for 4-6 months

Gradual return to sports

Ice and elevation to control swelling

Monitor donor site pain

Excellent cartilage healing expected

Return to full activity at 6-12 months

Long-term joint preservation

Better than microfracture for large defects

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.What is the recovery time?

Recovery typically takes 3-6 months depending on procedure complexity.

Q2.What is the success rate?

85% success rate at Arthoscenter with Dr. Kumar.

Q3.What is the cost?

Cost ranges ₹1-3 lakhs. PMJAY/BSKY accepted. Book ₹999 consultation.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered