Knee Cartilage
Demo Author One
Cartilage repair options for lasting joint health
A practical overview of cartilage repair, injection therapy, rehabilitation planning, and the clinical evidence that guides joint preservation care.
KOAT
KOAT (Knee Osteoplasty with Augmented Transplantation) is an advanced surgical technique that combines bone reshaping with cartilage augmentation. It is designed for complex defects where both the cartilage surface and the underlying bone architecture need correction. By addressing both layers in a single procedure, KOAT creates a stable, congruent joint surface that supports long-term function. This technique is offered at London Cartilage Clinic for patients where standard cartilage replacement alone may not be sufficient.
Reviewed byProf Paul Lee MBBch, FRCS (Tr & Orth), PhDLast reviewed 1 May 2026
Why bone shape matters
for cartilage survival
Cartilage sits on the subchondral bone like a surface coating. If the bone beneath is irregular, depressed, or has collapsed, a cartilage graft placed on top will not match the surrounding contour and may fail under load.
- Osteoplasty reshapes the bone to restore normal joint geometry.
- Cartilage augmentation is then applied to the prepared, congruent surface.
- The combined approach addresses the root cause rather than patching over structural problems.
KOAT is often considered after a previous cartilage procedure has failed because the underlying bone problem was not addressed at the time of the original surgery.
The procedure
and what to expect
KOAT is performed as a single-stage operation. The bone is reshaped first, then cartilage tissue is transplanted or augmented onto the prepared surface to create a smooth, load-bearing joint.
- Protected weight-bearing for six to eight weeks post-operatively.
- Early physiotherapy to maintain range of motion and prevent stiffness.
- Return to activity guided by imaging and clinical assessment of graft incorporation.
KOAT is a specialist procedure offered to a select group of patients. Your surgeon will determine whether this combined approach is appropriate based on imaging, defect characteristics, and prior surgical history.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does KOAT stand for?
KOAT refers to Knee Osteoplasty with Augmented Transplantation. It is a combined technique that addresses both the bone contour and the cartilage surface in a single procedure.
How does KOAT differ from OATS or OCA?
OATS and OCA focus on replacing cartilage with a plug or graft. KOAT goes further by reshaping the underlying bone (osteoplasty) to create an optimal surface before augmenting it with cartilage tissue. This combination is suited to defects where the bone itself is irregular or depressed.
Who benefits from the KOAT procedure?
KOAT is considered for patients with cartilage defects accompanied by subchondral bone irregularity, where a standard cartilage graft alone may not achieve a congruent joint surface. It is particularly relevant after failed previous cartilage procedures or in cases of osteochondritis dissecans with bone involvement.
What is the recovery after KOAT?
Recovery is similar to other cartilage transplantation procedures. Protected weight-bearing for six to eight weeks, early range of motion exercises, and a gradual return to activity over six to twelve months. The bone component needs time to remodel alongside cartilage maturation.
Still have more specific concerns?
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