Expert Cartilage Restoration Procedures in Hyderabad


ACI & MACI for Joint Repair Without Replacement

Regrow Your Cartilage. Restore Your Movement. Rediscover Life.

At Germanten Hospital, Hyderabad’s leading center for advanced orthopedic care, we offer Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) and Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (MACI)—next-generation techniques to restore damaged cartilage using your own cells.

If you're under 55, active, and suffering from localized cartilage loss due to injury or early arthritis, cartilage restoration can help avoid joint replacement surgery and restore mobility—naturally.

Cartilage Restoration (ACI & MACI) in Hyderabad

What is Cartilage Restoration (ACI & MACI)?

Cartilage Restoration is a biologic procedure to regrow hyaline-like cartilage using your own cartilage cells (chondrocytes). These are harvested, cultured in a lab, and re-implanted into the damaged area.

ACI (Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation):

Involves injecting lab-expanded cartilage cells under a membrane into the damaged area.

MACI (Matrix-Induced ACI):

A more advanced version where the chondrocytes are seeded onto a collagen matrix for better integration and easier surgical placement.

Both techniques aim to restore natural cartilage, prevent arthritis progression, and preserve the joint.

Who Can Benefit from Cartilage Restoration?

  • Isolated cartilage defects in the knee, ankle, or shoulder
  • Post-traumatic cartilage injuries
  • Pain, swelling, or mechanical symptoms in the joint
  • No advanced osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis
  • Patients aged 18-55 years

Why Choose Germanten Hospital for Cartilage Repair?

  • Trained Orthopedic Cell Therapy Specialists
  • Partnerships with Certified Cell Culture Labs
  • Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Techniques
  • Comprehensive Pre- and Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
  • One of Hyderabad's Most Advanced Orthopedic Regeneration Centers

How ACI / MACI Works

Diagnosis & MRI Evaluation

High-resolution imaging to assess defect size, depth, and location.

Arthroscopic Biopsy (Step 1)

A small sample of cartilage is taken from a non-weight-bearing joint area.

Lab Culturing (4-6 weeks)

Chondrocytes are expanded in a certified lab or cultured onto a collagen matrix (MACI).

Implantation Surgery (Step 2)

Cells or matrix are implanted into the damaged site using minimally invasive techniques.

Rehabilitation Program

Custom physical therapy to regain joint mobility, strength, and function.

Benefits of Cartilage Restoration (ACI/MACI)

  • Biological repair – uses your body's own cartilage cells
  • Delays or avoids joint replacement
  • Improves function and reduces pain
  • Long-lasting outcomes (10+ years in many cases)
  • Ideal for active individuals and athletes

Recovery Timeline After ACI / MACI

Timeframe Recovery Milestone
0-6 Weeks Protected weight-bearing with crutches
6-12 Weeks Gradual return to walking and daily activities
3-6 Months Improved range of motion and strength
6-12 Months Return to sports and high-demand activities (post-physiotherapy)

Cost of Cartilage Restoration in Hyderabad

Pricing depends on:

  • Size and location of cartilage defect
  • Whether ACI or MACI is performed
  • Rehab duration and additional therapies (e.g., PRP)

Estimated Cost: ₹3.5 Lakhs – ₹6.5 Lakhs*

*Package plans and EMI available. May not be covered under regular insurance.

Glossary of Terms

  • Chondrocyte – Cartilage-forming cell responsible for maintaining joint health
  • Autologous – Originating from the same individual (your own body)
  • MACI – Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
  • Periosteal Patch – A tissue membrane used in traditional ACI
  • Arthroscopy – Minimally invasive joint surgery technique using small instruments and a camera
  • counter-img1
    20+
    Years of Experience
  • counter-img2
    10K+
    Successful Surgeries
  • counter-img3
    100K+
    Happy Patients
  • counter-img4
    40+
    Global Awards
Testimonials

What Our Patients Are Saying

Success Stories

News & Awards

Explore the latest news and awards received by our team. We are proud of our achievements and continue to strive for excellence.

View More
GET ANSWERS

Cartilage Restoration - Frequently Asked Questions

ACI/MACI provides long-lasting results, especially in young, active patients with proper rehab.
MACI uses a collagen membrane for better cell integration and simpler implantation; ACI involves injecting free chondrocytes under a periosteal patch.
In many cases, cartilage restoration delays or eliminates the need for total joint replacement.
Yes. ACI and MACI are FDA-approved procedures backed by decades of research and clinical use globally.
Articles & Tips

Latest News & Blogs