Orthopedic Surgical Options for Joint Cartilage Repair and Restoration

The limited natural capacity for articular cartilage to regenerate has led to a continuously broadening array of surgical interventions. Typically employed once patients' symptoms are no longer relieved by nonoperative management, these methods share the goals of joint preservation and restoration. Techniques include bone marrow stimulation, whole-tissue transplantation, and cell-based strategies, each with its own variations. Many of these interventions are performed arthroscopically or with extended-portal techniques. Indications, operative techniques, unique benefits, and limitations are presented.