MACI® Procedure in Knoxville, TN
Advanced Cartilage Restoration at Parkwest Surgery Center
Damage to the cartilage in your knee can lead to ongoing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. When this protective tissue wears down or is injured, simple movements like walking, bending, or exercising can become difficult. At Parkwest Surgery Center in Knoxville, TN, our surgeons offer the MACI® procedure (Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation)—an advanced treatment designed to repair damaged cartilage using your body’s own cells.
For patients who have not found relief with non-surgical treatments, MACI® may provide a restorative option that supports long-term joint function.
What Is the MACI® Procedure?
The MACI® procedure is a two-step, cell-based treatment used to repair cartilage damage in the knee joint. Unlike traditional approaches that may only manage symptoms, MACI® focuses on restoring the cartilage surface itself.
Cartilage plays a critical role in allowing your knee to move smoothly. When it becomes damaged due to injury, overuse, or wear and tear, the joint may become painful, unstable, or less functional. Because cartilage has a limited ability to heal on its own, specialized treatments like MACI® are often needed for repair.
How the MACI® Procedure Works
The MACI® process is performed in stages:
- Cartilage Biopsy:
A small sample of healthy cartilage is taken from your knee during a minimally invasive procedure. - Cell Growth in the Lab:
The cartilage cells are sent to a specialized lab, where they are cultured and expanded over several weeks. These cells are placed onto a collagen membrane to create the MACI® implant. - Implantation Surgery:
During a second procedure, your surgeon places the customized membrane into the damaged area of the knee. The implant is secured in place, where it integrates with surrounding tissue and supports the growth of new cartilage.
This personalized approach enables targeted repair of cartilage defects, helping to restore a smoother joint surface.
Who May Be a Candidate for MACI®?
The MACI® procedure may be appropriate for patients who:
- Have localized cartilage damage in the knee
- Experience persistent knee pain, swelling, or limited movement
- Have not improved with physical therapy, medications, or other conservative treatments
- Are looking to preserve their natural joints rather than pursue joint replacement
A thorough evaluation by your orthopedic surgeon will determine whether MACI® is the right option for your condition.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery after the MACI® procedure is gradual and requires a structured rehabilitation plan. Physical therapy plays a key role in restoring strength, flexibility, and function.
While recovery timelines vary, patients can generally expect:
- Early use of crutches with limited weight-bearing
- Gradual progression to full weight-bearing over several weeks
- Ongoing physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
- A return to low-impact activities within several months
Full recovery and return to higher-level activity may take time, depending on individual healing and rehabilitation progress. Reach out for more information on MACI surgery.