To present our preliminary results in fully arthroscopically performed 3-dimensional autologous cartilage transplantation (ACT-3D) for medium to large focal chondral defects at the knee.

We treated operatively in our Dept., 35 symptomatic patients between March 2007 and May 2008. The mean age was 32 years old. The mean area of cartilage defect was 6.75cm² (2.2–10cm²) and all the cases were classified as grade III(16) and IV(18) according to Out-erbrigde scale. 18 of the cartilage lesions were located in the weight-bearing surface of the medial femoral condyle, 8 in the lateral one, 6 in the trochlea area and 2 in the lateral facet of the patella. We performed 15 applications of ACT3D as single procedure. Apart from that, we performed 11 ACL reconstructions combined with the 3D-spheres. Preop. and postoperative evaluation of patients was done using the Modified Cincinatti (MC) Rating System(0–100), the VAS (visual analogue pain score) (0–10), IKDC Knee examination score and Patient Outcome Function score.

All the cases were performed uneventfully. No major complications were seen. All cases followed a specialized rehabilitation protocol. In MC Rating System the result rose from 41.5 to 72.5 and in VAS, pain significantly reduced from 6.1 to 1.8 in 12 months time. The Patient Outcome Function score showed 81% better, 18% same and 1% worse results. The follow-up using MRI showed adequate filling of the defect without significant bone swelling.

Arthroscopically performed chondrocyte implantation (ACT) is an innovative technique with early results very promising. It’s surgeon demanding, although it’s fast performed technique and well tolerated operation. A greater number of cases and further mid and long term follow-up has to be studied in order to prove the efficacy of the method.