Knee cartilage repair: your own cells could be the key

NCT ID NCT04296487

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing a procedure called autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for people with knee cartilage defects. Doctors take a sample of the patient's own cartilage cells, grow them in a lab, and then implant them into the damaged area. The goal is to see if this approach is safe and effective at repairing the knee and improving function. The trial is currently recruiting 218 participants aged 15 to 50.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: autologous chondrocytes (patient's own cartilage cells)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a safe and effective way to repair knee cartilage damage, potentially reducing pain and improving mobility.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study focused on safety and feasibility. The procedure may not work for everyone, and risks include infection, inflammation, or incomplete healing.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

articular cartilage disorder chondromalacia Osteochondritis osteochondrosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECT CHONDRAL DEFECT OSTEOCHONDRITIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois - CHUV
RECRUITING

Lausanne, Canton of Vaud, 1011, Switzerland

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