Arthroscopic knee surgery being performed in operating theatre

Cartilage Replacement

Name: Cartilage Replacement
Creator: Prof Paul Lee

From £9,800

Guide price only. Final cost is confirmed after assessment.

Replacing parts of the joint cartilage that have been damaged due to injury or arthritis. Typically, this surgery is considered in cases where significant weight bearing joints such as the knee or ankle have been impacted. Knee cartilage replacement surgery is carried out under anaesthesia. This involves an arthroscopy procedure to grant access to the affected joint. From here, a specialist will remove and replace the damaged cartilage. The aim of cartilage replacement is to restore regular movement function, protect the joint, and relieve pain.

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Reviewed byProf Paul Lee MBBch, FRCS (Tr & Orth), PhDLast reviewed 1 May 2026

Doctor examining a patient's knee during consultation

Why might you need
cartilage replacement?

Cartilage is essential for normal joint movement throughout the body. However, after traumatic stress injury or severe ongoing degeneration, cartilage does not have the capacity to repair itself.

This can increase friction between joints because lubrication is reduced. Replacement cartilage may be used to substitute damaged or lost tissue and improve joint problems such as pain, discomfort, loss of movement, and rising osteoarthritis risk.

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What are the benefits of
cartilage replacement?

Seeking treatment from London Cartilage Clinic places you in the hands of leading experts in cartilage repair, regeneration, and replacement. We provide a comprehensive consultation and diagnosis so you understand all available options before receiving a tailored recommendation.

If your injury severity warrants replacement, we take the time to ensure all pre-surgical steps are handled properly. You can then choose an appointment that fits your schedule. Our objective is to minimize discomfort while striving for a high surgical success rate.

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Physiotherapist performing manual knee examination

You may have more options than you think

Most patients have more treatment options than they have been told

At London Cartilage Clinic we follow a structured clinical framework across four areas of treatment. Before recommending a single procedure, we assess which combination of approaches gives you the best outcome.

Preserve

Protect what you have. Slow degeneration and manage symptoms.

Repair

Fix specific damage. Torn tissue, unstable joints, structural problems.

Regenerate

Rebuild lost tissue. Biological treatments that stimulate new growth.

Replace

When other options are exhausted. Joint replacement as a last resort.

Explore the full range of treatments available for your joint. Each hub page shows every option we offer, organised by clinical approach.

Explore Knee Options Explore Ankle Options

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during knee cartilage replacement?

First, the surgeon will assess the cartilage damage in the affected area using an X-ray. This scan informs where the arthroscopy incisions should be made. The site is then disinfected before access to the joint is created, allowing damaged cartilage to be removed and replacement cartilage to be implanted.

How do I prepare for cartilage replacement?

The main preparation is a scan to evaluate the severity of the injury. Before surgery, you will also be asked safety-related questions. For example, you must tell your surgeon about any medication you are taking that could interfere with the procedure.

What postoperative care is advised following knee cartilage replacement?

After the operation, your specialist will provide specific advice on helping the joint heal correctly, including how to maintain and replace dressings. Some swelling is normal, and in some cases additional testing may be recommended to gather more information about recovery.

Still have more specific concerns?

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London Cartilage Clinic