Complications of articular cartilage surgery

The treatment of articular cartilage lesions of the knee has evolved tremendously in the past 2 decades. Traditional treatment including osteotomy, debridement, and bone marrow stimulation techniques (microfracture, drilling, and abrasion arthroplasty) have been used with predictable results with a relatively well defined set of complications. Newer techniques including autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), osteochondral autograft and allograft transplantation have gained increased enthusiasm. These present a new set of potential complications to potentially be avoided, identified, or treated. This article reviews the various options available, their indications and complications, and offers treatment recommendations after complications occur.