OATS - Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation Surgery
Extensive wear or tear on the joints can lead to thin or damaged cartilage. Injuries, repetitive use and other activities can lead to joint damage and a higher risk of osteoarthritis. To protect the joint from further damage and extend the function of the natural joint, there are joint preservation surgeries and treatments that can be performed. Our orthopedic surgeons at DOCS Health offer OATS (osteochondral autograft transplantation surgery) at our medical center in Los Angeles.
Cartilage protects the bones attached in joints from damage when they slide against each other. When small lesions or thin patches in the cartilage occur, it can result in pain, stiffness and swelling in the joint. Damaged cartilage can result in early osteoarthritis that can further damage the joints. Joint preservation by replacing lost cartilage with OATS can be an option for younger patients with cartilage damage. The best candidates are usually patients under the age of 50.
Cartilage Transplant Surgery
To perform OATS, cartilage must be harvested from other joints in the body. In some cases, bone grafts may also be needed to repair damaged bone. Before the bone or cartilage grafts are completed, the damaged cartilage is removed from the joint. The bone and cartilage grafts add healthy tissue to the joint that can adhere to the existing bone and cartilage. Other joint preservation treatments may be used in conjunction to ensure proper healing of the new cartilage.
OATS has a high success rate with few risks. The cartilage and bone are harvested from the same patient, so there is not a risk of rejection by the body. The procedure can extend the function of the joint and delay or avoid the need for a joint replacement.
If you have damaged cartilage that is interfering with your joint function or causing pain, contact us at DOCS Health in Los Angeles to learn more about osteochondral autograft transplantation surgery and our other joint treatments. We have experienced orthopedic joint specialists that can recommend joint preservation treatments to protect your joints and relieve pain.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.