Stellenwert der autologen Chondrozytentransplantation (ACT) in der Behandlung von Knorpelschäden des Kniegelenks - Empfehlungen der AG Klinische Geweberegeneration der DGOU Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) for Cartilage Defects of the Knee: A Guideline by the Working Group "Tissue Regeneration" of the German Society of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (DGOU)

Autologous chondrocyte transplantation/implan- tation (ACT/ACI) is an established and recognised procedure for the treatment of localised full- thickness cartilage defects of the knee. The present review of the working group "Clinical Tis- sue Regeneration" of the German Society of Or- thopaedics and Traumatology (DGOU) describes the biology and function of healthy articular car- tilage, the present state of knowledge concerning potential consequences of primary cartilage le- sions and the suitable indication for ACI. Based on current evidence, an indication for ACI is given for symptomatic cartilage defects starting from defect sizes of more than 3-4cm 2 ; in the case of young and active sports patients at 2.5 cm 2 . Ad- vanced degenerative joint disease is the single most important contraindication. The review gives a concise overview on important scientific background, the results of clinical studies and dis- cusses advantages and disadvantages of ACI.