Review Article

Arthroscopic treatment of chondral defects in the hip: AMIC, MACI, microfragmented adipose tissue transplantation (MATT) and other options

¹ Clinica Ortopedica e Traumatologica – IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università degli Studi di Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
² Ortopedia 1, COF Lanzo Hospital, 22024 Lanzo d’Intelvi (CO), Italy

^* Corresponding author: eugenio.jannelli@libero.it

Received: 5 January 2017
Accepted: 15 April 2017

Abstract

Chondral lesions are currently considered in the hip as a consequence of trauma, osteonecrosis, dysplasia, labral tears, loose bodies, dislocation, previous slipped capital femoral epiphysis and Femoro-Acetabular-Impingement (FAI). The management of chondral lesions is debated and several techniques are described. The physical examination must be carefully performed, followed by radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Differential diagnosis with other pathologies must be considered. Debridement is indicated in patients younger than 50 years with a chondropathy of 1st or 2nd degree. Microfractures are indicated in patients younger than 50 years with a chondropathy of 3rd or 4th degree less than 2 cm². Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (MACI) and Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis (AMIC) procedures are indicated in patients with full-thickness symptomatic 3rd–4th degree chondral defects, extended 2 cm² or more. The AMIC procedure has the advantage of a one-step procedure and much less expense. Microfragmented adipose tissue transplantation (MATT) is indicated for the treatment of delamination and 1st and 2nd degree chondral lesions, regardless of the age of the patient. Chondral defects are effective when the joint space is not compromised. When the Tonnis classification is two or greater, treatment of chondral lesions should be considered ineffective.