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Meta-analysis shows better short-term results with ACI than microfracture
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MONTREAL — Results of a meta-analysis presented here indicated superior short- and mid-term outcomes with autologous chondrocyte implantation procedures compared to microfracture.
Lukas L. Negrin, MD, of Vienna, presented the findings at the International Cartilage Repair Society World Congress 2012.
Negrin and colleagues reviewed four databases for controlled, prospective, observational studies or controlled clinical trials in which microfracture was compared to ACI in patients with full-thickness knee cartilage lesions. They identified four studies that noted the eligibility criteria for inclusion and consisted of a total 318 patients aged 16 years to 60 years with chondral defects sized 1 cm² to 10 cm². All patients were followed up for 2 years to 5 years, Negrin said.
“Three of the four studies showed significant superiority of ACI over the microfracture technique,” Negrin said. “Our meta-analysis reveals clinically relevant superior short- and mid-term results achieved by ACI compared to microfracture in this representative patient population.”
Negrin noted that limitations of the meta-anlysis included a review of four variations of ACI techniques and that the failures were managed differently in each study.
Reference:
- Negrin LL, Vecsei V. Does a meta-analysis reveal differences in the clinical outcome achieved by microfracture and autologous chondrocyte implantation? Paper #16.3.6. Presented at the International Cartilage Repair Society World Congress 2012. May 12-15. Montreal.
