CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Microfracture surgery
ARTICULAR CARTILAGE REPAIR
A procedure to treat small areas of knee cartilage damage by making tiny holes in the bone surface to form new cartilage
What is microfracture surgery?
Surface cartilage covers the ends of the bones that form your joints. Smooth, healthy cartilage allows the bones to glide across each other smoothly and painlessly as you move. If you have significant damage to an isolated patch of the surface cartilage in your knee, your consultant might recommend microfracture surgery to encourage new cartilage to form.
Need to know
Microfracture surgery is performed as a keyhole procedure (arthroscopic), which involves inserting a tiny camera called an arthroscope and specialised surgical instruments into small keyhole cuts around your knee. The arthroscope sends images to your surgeon via a monitor, which allows them to see the inside of your knee in detail.
Before the procedure, your consultant may suggest several tests, including an X-ray or MRI scan to assess your knee. They will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. Like all procedures, there may be some potential risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
You should be able to go home the same day as your procedure. You will be given painkillers to help keep any discomfort to a minimum immediately following surgery. Ice may be helpful to reduce pain and swelling, as can elevating your leg.
To allow the microfracture to work, you will need to use crutches for several weeks, and you will likely need to use a continuous passive motion machine (CPM). CPM is an integral part of your recovery and return to your everyday activities. Your consultant will let you know what to expect and you may be given physiotherapy exercises to help improve your mobility as you recover. They will also let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.
Microfracture surgery Consultants
Mr Mazin Ibrahim
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr Richard Carrington
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr William Bartlett
Orthopaedic Surgery
Mr Matthew J Welck
Orthopaedic Surgery
Our locations
Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road W1T 7HA London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.