Cartilage Regeneration Therapy
About
Cartilage regeneration therapy is a modern, minimally invasive treatment that helps repair damaged cartilage and restore the smooth surface of the joints. It uses the body’s natural healing ability through cell-based or plasma-based methods to stimulate regeneration and reduce inflammation.
Our orthopedic specialists use advanced regenerative medicine techniques such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, autologous conditioned plasma (ACP), and stem cell injections. These treatments help patients reduce pain, increase mobility, and restore joint function. Cartilage regeneration is most often recommended for patients experiencing joint pain, osteoarthritis, or cartilage injuries caused by sports, trauma, or aging.
Candidate
This therapy is intended for patients with localized cartilage damage who are not yet candidates for joint replacement surgery. It is particularly effective in early or moderate osteoarthritis, sports injuries, or after trauma that has led to cartilage wear. It is suitable for active individuals who want to preserve their natural joint and delay or avoid prosthetic implantation. The orthopedic specialist determines eligibility after a clinical examination and imaging such as MRI or ultrasound.
Preparation
Before treatment, patients undergo a detailed orthopedic consultation and imaging to assess the extent of cartilage damage. No special preparation is usually required. Patients should inform their doctor about any medications, chronic illnesses, or allergies. International patients receive assistance through ZagrebMed, including scheduling, translation, and coordination with the medical team.
Treatment
Cartilage regeneration can be performed using different regenerative techniques. The most common include platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses the patient’s own platelets and growth factors to stimulate cartilage repair; stem cell therapy, which uses mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow or adipose tissue to regenerate damaged tissue; and autologous conditioned plasma (ACP), a refined version of PRP that reduces inflammation and accelerates healing. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. It is done on an outpatient basis, and patients can return home the same day.
Result
Cartilage regeneration therapy helps reduce pain, increase joint mobility, and improve overall joint function. Most patients begin to notice improvement within several weeks after treatment. The results depend on the extent of damage and the body’s healing response. For best results, the procedure is often combined with [physical therapy] or [knee arthroscopy] when structural correction is required. Long-term benefits include slower progression of joint degeneration, better stability, and reduced need for future surgical procedures.
Precautions
After treatment, patients should avoid intense physical activity for several days and follow the recommendations of their doctor. Mild swelling or tenderness at the injection site may occur but usually disappears quickly. Follow-up examinations are important to monitor recovery and decide if additional sessions are needed.
Related Services
F.A.Q.
Most patients experience pain relief and improved mobility within weeks. Effectiveness depends on the extent of cartilage damage and the selected method.
No. The treatment is performed under local anesthesia and causes only mild temporary discomfort.
Usually one to three sessions are sufficient, depending on the patient’s condition and the chosen technique.
In many early cases, yes. It can delay or prevent the need for joint replacement by stimulating natural healing.
Patients can return to light activity within a day. Full physical recovery usually takes two to four weeks.
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