How does autologous chondrocyte implantation work?

How does autologous chondrocyte implantation work?

Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) is a process whereby articular cartilage cells (chondrocytes) are collected, multiplied in a laboratory to increase cell number and then re-implanted (after approximately 4 weeks) with a special surgical technique into the damaged area of the knee.

Is autologous chondrocyte implantation successful?

The overall success rate of ACI is approximately 85% in allowing patients to return to pain-free activities.

What is autologous cultured chondrocytes implant?

Autologous cultured chondrocytes are the patient’s own cartilage cells. The cells are removed from the patient and sent to a laboratory, where they are processed to increase their number. The cells are then implanted (placed) in the damaged part of the knee.

How much is autologous chondrocyte implantation?

Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation is undoubtedly an expensive procedure but one of the best treatment options for joint diseases involving defective cartilage. It costs around $40,000, but this may vary depending on the country it is performed in.

Can you run after MACI surgery?

“Generally speaking, patients can return to walking for exercise in 3–4 months, jogging at 7–9 months, and distance running between 9–12+ months after surgery,” says Duke University physical therapist Dr.

How painful is MACI surgery?

Expect to have pain following surgery. Pain level of 4-5/10 is our goal. The pain medication prescribed for you should provide relief, but often does not take all the pain away. The first few days following surgery can be the most painful.

Is autologous chondrocyte implantation available on the NHS?

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is available on the NHS as a possible treatment for symptomatic articular cartilage defects of the knee in people if: they have not had previous knee surgery to repair articular cartilage defects.

Is autologous chondrocyte implantation FDA approved?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Maci (autologous cultured chondrocytes on porcine collagen membrane) for the repair of symptomatic, full-thickness cartilage defects of the knee in adult patients.

How much does ACI surgery cost?

First, surgery is performed to harvest normal articular cartilage, which is cultured in the laboratory. Eight weeks later, a second surgery involves placing a biomembrane patch over the lesion and injecting chondrocytes beneath it. At a cost of approximately $40,000, it is an expensive treatment.

How successful is MACI?

Five-year outcomes reveal success rates of 90 percent or greater. Longer-term (10 to 20 years) outcomes have reported success rates of 70 to 75 percent.

How much does MACI cost?

At $40,000, MACI is expensive, but insurance companies have stepped up, covering most Americans for the procedure. Vericel has trained more the 700 surgeons and hopes to expand the number of patients receiving the therapy, though not everyone is eligible.