ACI Surgery on Knee

[PaulGb]

I'm considering ACI procedure on left knee. I have damage to articular cartilage. I'm 45 years old, but in excellent shape. I've been a runner and soccer player for 25 plus years. 5'9 1'2 and 160 pounds.

Have 1.4 x 1.6 cm damage to left knee articular cartilage. Near medial area of knee. Has anyone had this procedure done, and returned to running and soccer after age 40?

What is duration of recovery. I've heard anywhere from 12 months to more than 2 years.

Finally, are there any other alternatives and am I likely to need knee replacement eventually if nothing is done.

[Heidi]

Hi
I am not particularly up on ACI but in answer to your last question, yes you would more than likely need at least partial knee reconstruction eventually if nothing is done, although this would be left as late as possible. Most surgeons don't like doing them before age 60 as they only have an expected life span of about 10 years.
Other alternaives include rehabilitation to strengthen the joint and surrounding muscles if you haven't tried this already it's worth a go.

[PaulGb]

I saw the MD yesterday. He indicated that I am a candidate for ACI procedure. He noted that he had very good results with this procedure...80 to 90% success rate, and that I should be able to get back to sports (running in soccer at 6 months or so from surgery).

Anyone had this procedure recently?