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DMC Orthopaedic Surgeons use the O.A.T.S.
procedure to repair worn knee cartilage.
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OATS or osteoarticular transfer system, is a surgical procedure used to treat cartilage defects in the knee, where the cartilage has worn away or is missing. Cartilage defect can be due to trauma, and is commonly found with other injuries, including ACL and MCL tears.
Diagnostic procedures may include the following:
x-ray, MRI, CT scan
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- pain
- swelling
- stiffness in the knee
Treatment
In an OATS procedure, holes left where cartilage is missing are “plugged” with cartilage from a non-weight baring area of the knee (autograft) or by using cadaver bone (allograft).
This treatment is only used for small areas of cartilage damage, usually limited to 10-20 mm in size. This type of damage is usually seen in younger patients (less than 50 years old) who experience a trauma to their joint.
After Surgery/Recovery
Physical Therapy is a critical part of complete recovery. Our doctors recommend DMC's Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, with 30 convenient locations across southeastern Michigan. To find one near you, click here.