Using autologous chondrocyte suspension for knee cartilage repair
Introduction of Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation Procedure for the Treatment of Chondral Defect in the Knee
This study is testing whether using a patient’s own cartilage cells can help repair knee cartilage damage and improve their knee function over a year.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 218 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lausanne, Canton of Vaud) |
| Trial ID | NCT04296487 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This interventional study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of autologous chondrocyte suspension in treating knee articular cartilage defects. Participants will undergo a biopsy for cell production, followed by cell implantation and a strict rehabilitation protocol over 12 months. Assessments will include MRI evaluations, collection of adverse events, and orthopedic scores at multiple follow-up intervals (6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months). Informed consent is obtained from all participants prior to the procedures.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 15 to 50 with specific cartilage lesions that have not responded to prior treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with a BMI of 35 or more, active arthritis, or other specified exclusion criteria may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the healing and function of knee cartilage in affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using autologous chondrocyte implantation have shown promising results, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age between 15 and 50. 2. Lesions classified as ICRS Grade III or IV and smaller than 15 cm2 3. Lesions that have failed prior therapy (conservative or surgical treatment ≥ six months) 4. Subjects who understand and sign the consent form for this study Exclusion Criteria: 1. Body mass index (BMI) of 35 or more 2. Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis 3. Diffuse lesion 4. Uncorrected mal-alignment, ligamentous instability, or meniscal tear 5. Presence of growth cartilage (15-18 years old) 6. Active smoking or drug consumption 7. Women who are pregnant 8. Positive serology for HIV-1 or HIV-2, Hepatitis B and C and syphilis 9. Proven allergy to porcine collagen, penicillin and gentamicin 10. Poor compliance
Where this trial is running
Lausanne, Canton of Vaud
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois - CHUV — Lausanne, Canton of Vaud, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robin MARTIN, MD — Chuv
- Study coordinator: Robin MARTIN, MD
- Email: robin.martin@chuv.ch
- Phone: 021 314 76 79
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.