Arthroscopic and open techniques for transplantation of osteochondral autografts and allografts in various joints.

A chondral/osteochondral defect involving the articular surface of a joint is still a therapeutic problem. The goal of articular cartilage repair is restoration of cartilage congruity, accomplishing a full pain free range of motion and elimination of cartilage deterioration. Current treatment modalities include debridement and drilling, picking or abrasion of the subchondral bone, fresh osteochondral allografts, periosteal or perichondral grafting, periosteal grafting with chondrocyte transplant, and joint replacement. The use of autologous grafts was first repor ted in 1964.