Autologous and micro-fragmented adipose tissue for the treatment of diffuse degenerative knee osteoarthritis.

Early human evidence such as case series or small samples is exploring possible benefits.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background Chondral lesions of the knee represent a challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon. Several treatments have been proposed with variable success rate. Recently, new therapeutic approaches, such as the use of mesenchymal stem cells, have shown promising results. The adipose tissue is a good source of these naturally occurring regenerative cells, due to its abundance and easy access. In addition, it can be used to provide cushioning and filling of structural defects. The 1-year safety and outcome of a single intra-articular injection of autologous and micro-fragmented adipose tissue in 30 patients affected by diffuse degenerative chondral lesions was evaluated. Methods Micro-fragmented adipose tissue was obtained using a minimal manipulation technique in a closed system. The safety of the procedure was evaluated by recording type and incidence of any adverse event. The clinical outcomes were determined using the KOOS, IKDC-subjective, Tegner Lysholm Knee, and VAS pain scales taken pre-operatively and at 12 months follow-up. A level of at least 10 points of improvement in the scores has been selected as cut-off representing a clinically significant difference. Results No relevant complications nor clinical worsening were recorded. A total median improvement of 20 points has been observed in IKDC-subjective and total KOOS, and a higher percentage of success was found in VAS p

Evidence level

Early human evidence such as case series or small samples is exploring possible benefits.

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