Matrix-Applied Characterized Autologous Cultured Chondrocytes Versus Microfracture: Two-Year Follow-up of a Prospective Randomized Trial

Saris D, Price A, Widuchowski W, et al. · The American Journal of Sports Medicine

MACI produced significantly greater improvement than microfracture on the co-primary endpoint at 2 years: KOOS pain 37.0 to 82.5 against 35.5 to 70.9, and KOOS function 14.9 to 60.9 against 12.6 to 48.7 (P = .001). Of 144 patients treated, 137 (95%) completed the 2-year assessment; mean age 33.8 years and mean lesion size 4.8 cm2.

Population

Adults with symptomatic knee cartilage defects ≥3 cm² (SUMMIT trial)

Intervention

MACI (matrix-applied characterized autologous cultured chondrocytes)

Comparator

Microfracture

Limitations

Open-label surgical trial; sponsor-funded; defects ≥3 cm² only.