What is an Osteochondral Allograft?

An osteochondral allograft is a piece of cartilage and bone taken from a donor. The surgery to put this graft in requires a small incision to access the knee joint. Sometimes, larger incisions are needed, depending on where the damage is.

The graft is carefully stored and must be used within 1 month of being taken from the donor. It is tested for any harmful bacteria or viruses before it can be used, which takes about 14 days. Once cleared, the graft is implanted to help restore the damaged cartilage.

For many patients, the surgery leads to significant improvement in knee function and pain relief. The results have been shown to last, with many patients experiencing better knee function for at least 5 -10 years after surgery.

However, while this surgery can greatly improve knee health, it is not a cure for arthritis. It is more like filling a single pothole of the knee. It helps restore the joint, but not all patients will be able to return to high-impact activities after the procedure.

Post-Operative Care for Osteoarticular Allografts

After surgery, patients need to be non-weight-bearing (not put weight on the knee) for 6-8 weeks to allow the graft to heal. During this time, patients will work on range of motion daily to regain mobility.

Once the surgical incision has healed (usually about 2 weeks after surgery), patients can start using a stationary bike. Physical therapy begins right after surgery to help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve knee movement, and reduce swelling.

At the 6 and 12 week post surgery appointments, the doctor will check the graft with X-rays to make sure it is healing properly. If healing is good, patients will start to gradually put weight on the knee, starting with ¼ of their body weight and increasing by ¼ each week until they are fully weight-bearing.

By 3 months after surgery, patients may be able to stop using crutches and begin exercises to improve balance and agility. High-impact activities (like running) can start between 6-9 months after surgery, but only if the doctor approves.