Matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation versus microfracture in the treatment of cartilage defects of the knee: a 2-year randomised study

Basad E, Ishaque B, Bachmann G, et al. · Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy

Both groups improved at 24 months, but MACI improved significantly more on Lysholm, Tegner, and ICRS scores (P = .005 to .04) — an independent, smaller RCT pointing the same way as SUMMIT.

Population

60 patients with symptomatic knee cartilage defects (40 MACI, 20 microfracture)

Intervention

MACI

Comparator

Microfracture

Limitations

Small, unbalanced randomization (2:1); open-label; 2-year horizon only.