The biphasic bioresorbable scaffold (Trufit^®) in the osteochondral knee lesions: long-term clinical and MRI assessment in 30 patients

Abstract

Background

Chondral or osteochondral defects have been reported in 60–67 % of patients in studies reporting knee arthroscopies. The surgical management of chondral and osteochondral defects (OCD’s) of the articular surface of the knee joint remains a controversial topic. Osteochondral injuries can be treated with transfer cartilage procedure and with implantation of biodegradable scaffolds. For patients over 50 years old with largest osteochondral lesions, we prefer to use the biodegradable scaffold, like Trufit^® plug (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcome of this series of surgical procedure with Trufit.

Methods

In our institute, the Trufit was used for the treatment of one or more focal osteochondral lesions of the femoral condyles positive MRI with or without concomitant ligamentous or meniscal pathology. We reviewed 30 patients with mean age of 60.57 years (range 32–79 years) with a clinical and imaging control at 6, 12, 24 and 48 months of follow-up.

Results

The clinical evaluation has shown the good outcome. The MRI conducted has shown the progressive partial integration of the scaffolds.

Conclusions

The results obtained indicate a clear improvement of the clinical symptoms and slowing joint degeneration. The clinical and imaging results confirm that the Trufit constitutes a valid surgical alternative in case of focal osteochondral