Does cartilage repair surgery treat knee cartilage injury?

Knee cartilage injury can involve a small focal defect, a flap, or damage that reaches the underlying bone. Repair procedures aim to improve the joint surface and may encourage new tissue to fill a defect. The approach depends on the location, size and depth of the injury, your symptoms, activity demands, age and whether the knee has arthritis or alignment problems. Surgery may be considered when pain, swelling, catching or reduced function continues despite a suitable non-surgical plan. It is not a single operation for every cartilage problem, and repaired tissue may need time and protection while the knee recovers.

An orthopaedic assessment usually combines an examination with imaging to define the cartilage defect and check the meniscus, ligaments and bone. Bring details about when symptoms began, locking or giving way, previous injuries and the activities you want to return to. Ask which procedure fits your lesion, how much weight bearing is expected, and what physiotherapy will involve. A structured rehabilitation plan helps restore movement, strength and control after treatment.

Arrange prompt assessment if the knee is repeatedly locking, suddenly becomes very swollen, cannot bear weight, or feels unstable after an injury. Seek urgent care for a deformed knee, severe pain after major trauma, or a hot, red joint with fever. These features can require attention before a cartilage treatment decision is made.

What type and location of cartilage injury do I have? Is repair appropriate, and what are the alternatives? How will the procedure affect walking, work, sport and physiotherapy? What signs during recovery should make me contact the clinic?