Joint Preservation Techniques for the Knee in 2020: The Utility of Biologics, Osteotomies, and Cartilage Restoration Procedures.

ABSTRACT

Joint preservation strategies in young, active patients are a challenge, particularly in those with combined cartilage and meniscal deficiency. Concomitant malalignment and/or ligamentous insufficiency are not uncommon and further add to the complex nature of these patients. In patients who require surgery, a complete treatment strategy must be developed and implemented because unaddressed pathology typically leads to poor outcomes over time. In addition to reconstructive procedures, biologic therapies both as nonsurgical treatments and surgical augments offer promise, but their indications and place in orthopaedics continue to evolve. A comprehensive approach to this difficult patient population, including understanding all underlying pathologies, the natural history of each condition, and the appropriate treatment for each pathology, is necessary for successful joint preservation treatment in the young and active population.