Cartilage damage is a common issue, particularly among athletes. Understanding the latest repair and preservation techniques is crucial for both medical professionals and those in sports medicine. We recently had the opportunity to discuss these topics with Dr. Raj Shani, a leading expert in the field.Favorite Technique: ACI (MACI)

Dr. Shani highlighted Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI), specifically MACI, as his preferred technique due to its immediate positive impact on patients. This procedure offers a faster, easier, and less burdensome recovery for the patient. Looking ahead, advancements may allow for cartilage harvesting and growth to occur in a single setting, eliminating the current two-stage procedure.Why Athletic Trainers (ATs) Need to Know

For athletic trainers, a general understanding of these techniques is invaluable. ATs are often the first point of contact for athletes and see them daily. Their knowledge fosters comfort and trust, allowing for more effective discussions about injuries and treatment options with athletes.Exosomes vs. Gene Therapy: The Future of Growth

When considering future growth, Dr. Shani believes exosomes hold more immediate promise. The ability to directly introduce exosomes into the knee makes them a more practical option than gene therapy, which presents significant challenges in modulation.Cartiheal: A Natural Solution

Cartiheal, derived from coral, is a fascinating naturally occurring and biologically inductive material. Bone can grow into it, making it a valuable substitute for allografts, which can be expensive or unavailable.The Meniscus: Protecting Cartilage

It’s important to differentiate the meniscus from the articular cartilage that deteriorates with arthritis. The meniscus plays a vital role in protecting the articular cartilage by increasing the surface area for weight-bearing. Without a healthy meniscus, the cartilage on the bone experiences less surface area for load distribution, making it more susceptible to damage and issues.

Cartilage Lesions in Athletes: Sports at Risk

Approximately 30% of athletes experience cartilage lesions. Sports involving cutting and contact, such as basketball, are particularly prone to these injuries. While data may be biased due to a higher male participation rate in sports, male athletes generally show a higher incidence of these lesions.

Jeremy Jackson

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