Editorial Commentary: Trends in Cartilage Surgery-Who Is Steering the Ship?

Abstract

With myriad cartilage surgery techniques available, including marrow stimulation, autologous osteochondral transfer, osteochondral allograft transplantation, and autologous chondrocyte implantation, treatment of knee articular cartilage injuries has become increasingly complex. Recent evidence suggests that advanced cartilage restoration procedures may provide improved outcomes and durability when compared with marrow stimulation techniques. When investigating orthopaedic surgeons early in practice, it appears that utilization of marrow stimulation techniques has decreased, an encouraging trend that is in line with recent evidence. However, it is important to consider how other factors not investigated, including insurance approval and payor reimbursement, may influence these trends moving forward.