Microfracture / Cartilage Procedures
Tiny holes are punched into the bone beneath a cartilage defect to summon healing stem cells — generating a fibrocartilage repair that delays joint replacement in young, focal-defect patients.
What is Microfracture / Cartilage Procedures?
Microfracture and related cartilage procedures are arthroscopic biological techniques used to address small, focal full-thickness articular cartilage defects in the knee, ankle and selected other joints. The damaged cartilage edges are debrided to a stable rim, the calcified layer over the bone is removed, and small holes are punched into the underlying subchondral bone with a specialised awl — releasing marrow stem cells that organise into a fibrocartilage scar across the defect. Dr. Hithesh performs microfracture in Hyderabad as a thoughtful joint-preservation option, using the body's own healing biology to delay or prevent eventual joint replacement.
Reserved for younger active patients with small focal full-thickness cartilage defects under 2 cm², well-aligned joints, intact ligaments and a clear desire to delay or avoid future joint replacement surgery.
How the Procedure Works
Diagnostic Arthroscopy
Standard portals confirm the focal cartilage defect, assess surrounding cartilage and rule out additional intra-articular pathology requiring treatment.
Defect Debridement
The damaged cartilage edges are precisely debrided to create a stable margin and a clean base for new repair tissue.
Calcified Layer Removal
The thin calcified cartilage layer over the bone is removed using a curette, exposing healthy underlying subchondral bone.
Microfracture Penetration
Small holes are punched 3–4 millimetres apart into the exposed subchondral bone using a specialised awl, releasing marrow elements.
Closure & Rehabilitation
Tiny portals are closed; protected weight-bearing for 6 weeks plus continuous passive motion ensures optimal new fibrocartilage formation.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
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Joint-preserving option for younger patients with focal cartilage damage
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Postpones or prevents the need for future joint replacement surgery
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Three tiny keyhole portals leave minimal cosmetic scarring afterwards
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Day-care arthroscopic procedure with same-day discharge home easily
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Uses body's own marrow stem cells for biological repair tissue
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Cost-effective compared to advanced cell-based or graft cartilage techniques
Microfracture is wonderfully simple but remarkably effective. By tapping into the body's own marrow biology, we can fill a focal cartilage defect with reliable repair tissue — and delay replacement surgery for many years.
— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Microfracture / Cartilage Procedures Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of microfracture or cartilage procedures in Hyderabad depends on the size and location of the cartilage defect, complexity of the knee condition, investigations required, and the care needed before and after the procedure.
For patients with a focal cartilage defect, especially in younger patients, the approximate cost of microfracture or cartilage procedures ranges between ₹80,000 and ₹1,80,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Microfracture / Cartilage Procedures | ₹80,000 – ₹1,80,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Microfracture / Cartilage Procedures Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Size and location of cartilage defect: The extent of cartilage damage, location within the knee joint, and severity of symptoms may influence the treatment approach and surgical planning.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required investigations, clinical examination, X-rays, MRI scans, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Additional procedures: If procedures such as meniscus treatment, ligament procedures, or other cartilage restoration techniques are required along with microfracture, the cost may vary.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, physiotherapy, rehabilitation plan, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Microfracture / Cartilage Procedures Covered by Insurance?
Microfracture or cartilage procedures may be covered by health insurance when they are performed for a medically necessary condition. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Hitesh Bathini
Orthopaedic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Hitesh Bathini, Orthopaedic Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and investigation reports to determine whether microfracture or cartilage procedures are suitable for you. He will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Bathini Hithesh and get a personalised treatment plan.