When is cartilage repair surgery recommended for knee cartilage injury?

Knee cartilage injury can affect the smooth surface that helps the joint move and share load. Suitability for repair depends on the defect’s location, size and depth, the condition of the surrounding cartilage and bone, knee alignment, stability, activity goals, and the presence of arthritis. Assessment may include an examination and imaging. A focal defect in an otherwise suitable knee is different from widespread degenerative change, so the scan alone does not decide the operation. Physiotherapy, activity modification, pain control, and treatment of related ligament or alignment problems may be considered first.

Keep a record of swelling, locking or catching, walking tolerance, and activities that provoke pain. Follow the recommended rehabilitation plan and avoid impact or twisting that repeatedly worsens symptoms. Ask the surgeon which repair method fits the defect, whether another problem must be treated at the same time, and how long protected weight-bearing or staged rehabilitation may last. Recovery commonly requires patience because repaired cartilage needs controlled loading and progressive strengthening.

Seek prompt assessment if the knee becomes suddenly locked, rapidly swells after an injury, cannot bear weight, or gives way repeatedly. Fever, increasing warmth, redness, or drainage after a procedure needs urgent medical advice. Severe pain with a deformed knee or a cold, numb foot requires emergency assessment.

Where is the cartilage defect and how deep is it? Is the surrounding joint suitable for repair? What non-surgical options remain? Would alignment or ligament treatment be needed? What restrictions, mobility aids, and rehabilitation milestones should I plan for?