Effect of Accelerated Weightbearing After Matrix-Associated Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation on the Femoral Condyle A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Study Presenting MRI-Based and Clinical Outcomes After 5 Years

Background:Long-term effects of different weightbearing (WB) modalities after matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) on changes in knee articular cartilage and clinical outcomes are needed to establish more evidence-based recommendations for postoperative rehabilitation.Hypothesis:There will be no differences between accelerated WB compared with delayed WB regarding knee articular cartilage or patient self-reported knee function or activity level 5 years after MACI. Furthermore, significant correlations between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures 5 years postoperatively will exist.Study Design:Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.Methods:After MACI, 31 patients (23 male, 8 female) were randomly assigned to the accelerated WB group (AWB group) or to the delayed WB group (DWB group). With the exception of time and increase to full WB, both groups underwent the same rehabilitation program. The AWB group was allowed full WB a...