Autologous matrix induced chondrogenesis plus peripheral blood concentrate (AMIC+PBC) in chondral defects of the first metatarsophalangeal joint - 5-year follow-up

Abstract

Background

The aim of the study was to assess the 5-year-follow-up (5FU) after Autologous Matrix Induced Chondrogenesis plus Peripheral Blood Concentrate (AMIC+PBC) in chondral defects at the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP1).

Material and methods

In a prospective consecutive non-controlled clinical follow-up study, all patients with chondral lesion at MTP1 that were treated with AMIC+PBC from July 17, 2016 to May 31, 2017 were included. Size and location of the chondral lesions, the Visual-Analogue-Scale Foot and Ankle (VAS FA) and the EFAS Score before treatment and at 5FU were analysed and compared with previous 2-year-follow-up (2FU). Peripheral Blood Concentrate (PBC) was used to impregnate a collagen I/III matrix (Chondro-Gide, Wolhusen, Switzerland) that was fixed into the chondral lesion with fibrin glue.

Results

One hundred and ninety-eight patients with 238 chondral defects were included. In 21 % of patients no deformities in the forefoot were registered. The average degree of osteoarthritis was 2.2. The chondral defect size was 1.0 cm² on average. The most common location was metatarsal dorsal (33 %), and in most patients one defect was registered (74 %). Corrective osteotomy of the first metatarsal was performed in 79 %. 176 (89 %)/164 (83 %) patients completed 2FU/5FU. VAS FA/EFAS Score were preoperatively 46.8/11.9 and improved to 74.1/17.1 at 2FU and 75.0/17.3 at 5FU on average. No parameter significantly differed between 2FU and 5FU.

Conclusions

AMIC+PBC as treatment for chondral defects at MTP1 as part of joint preserving surgery led to improved and high validated outcome scores at 2FU and 5FU. The results between 2FU and 5FU did not differ.