Osteochondral Autologous Transplantation (OATS), also known as Mosaicplasty, is another method of filling focal cartilage defects of the knee. Plugs of normal cartilage and bone are taken from one part of the knee, and are transferred to the injured part of the knee. It is similar to the idea of transplanting hair plugs for treatment of hair loss. The normal cartilage and bone is removed from an area that has minimal contact with the kneecap, minimizing problems stemming from the donor site.
The size of the defect dictates how many plugs are used. Smaller defects work best, using only a single plug. Unfortunately, the more plugs that are required, the higher the risk for donor site morbidity (problems in the normal area of the knee). In addition, since the plugs are round, when more than one is used, the gaps between them fill with fibrocartilage. Fibrocartilage is similar to scar tissue, and is stiffer and less efficient than normal hyaline cartilage. When a larger defect is encountered, a better option is using cadaver tissue, knows as an Allograft OATS Procedure. This allows for a single large plug to be obtained, with no additional morbidity to he patient.
Allograft OATS
Some weight can typically be applied immediately after surgery, followed by early range of motion. Return to sports activities can usually be achieved within 3-6 months.
Completed OATS Transplantation
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