Stem cells boost knee cartilage healing in new trial

NCT ID NCT07255547

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether adding stem cells from fat tissue to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) improves healing after knee microfracture surgery for cartilage damage. Eighty adults with small knee cartilage injuries will receive either PRP alone or PRP plus stem cells during arthroscopy. Researchers will track pain, function, and side effects for up to 5 years to see which approach works better.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and adipose-derived stem cells (AD-SVF)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could lead to a better way to repair knee cartilage injuries, potentially reducing pain and improving function without major side effects.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial with only 80 people, so results may not apply to everyone. Adding stem cells could increase risks like swelling or longer recovery.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Fractures, Stress

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • San Salvatore Hospital

    L’Aquila, Abruzzo, 67100, Italy