Evaluating the outcomes of cartilage repair surgery in the knee

Investigating the Biomechanical and Functional Outcomes of Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation: A Multi-centre Study

Observational University of Manchester · NCT06921889

This study is testing how well cartilage repair surgery helps people with knee injuries feel and move better after the operation.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment47 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Manchester Academic / other
Locations7 sites (Birmingham and 6 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06921889 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the biomechanical and functional outcomes of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for patients with chondral defects in the knee. It aims to assess how this surgical procedure affects knee function and movement post-operation, providing valuable insights into recovery expectations and potential complications. By analyzing patient-reported outcomes alongside objective measures, the study seeks to enhance understanding of ACI's effectiveness and inform future treatment strategies. The research is crucial as untreated cartilage injuries can lead to arthritis, impacting long-term quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who have been diagnosed with a chondral injury to the knee and are listed for autologous chondrocyte implantation.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old or those listed for treatments other than ACI will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with clearer expectations regarding recovery and functional improvements after cartilage repair surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have reported on patient outcomes following ACI, but this study aims to fill gaps in understanding biomechanical and functional results, making it a valuable addition to existing literature.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of a chondral injury to the knee by a consultant orthopaedic surgeon Participants must have this diagnosis, else they are not eligible for ACI surgery.
* Listed for ACI for a chondral injury by a consultant orthopaedic surgeon Participants must be listed for ACI, as this is the treatment of interest in this research study
* Over 18 years old Participants must be legally capable of providing informed consent for the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Listed for any treatment other than ACI Participants must be listed for ACI, as this is the treatment of interest in this research study
* Under 18 years old. Participants must be legally capable of providing informed consent for the study.

Where this trial is running

Birmingham and 6 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chondral DefectChondral defectCartilage repairKneeAutologous chondrocyte implantationBiomechanical outcomeGait
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.