A focal cartilage implant is an implant of metal, ceramic or plastic that replaces a small area of damaged joint cartilage.
Page updated June 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Small implant on the condyle of the femur.
Trochlear implant for arthritic damage to the groove of the femur (trochlear groove).
How does a focal cartilage implant work?
A focal implant may prevent further damage in a way analogous to a dental filling, providing an alternative to a joint replacement. Patients with such a problem are often relatively young with otherwise healthy joint cartilage.
NICE guidelines
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued guidelines for these procedures.
Synonyms:
Inlay arthroplasty
Metal resurfacing implants
Focal implant
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See also -
eBook - Knee arthritis interventions when you are too young for a total knee replacement
Easy-to-read book about the patient who has arthritis but is not yet of an age for a knee replacement. by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)