Knee Joint

Knee Joint – Treatment Spectrum

Mini-Prosthesis

The mini-prosthesis represents the smallest and therefore most tissue-preserving form of joint replacement. It is particularly well suited for treating localized cartilage defects and preserves the knee joint’s natural structures such as the cruciate and collateral ligaments, the joint capsule, and the menisci. Since this approach overlaps with cartilage cell transplantation, it is essential to carefully assess which therapy is best suited for each individual case. Factors such as the patient’s age and the condition of the bone beneath the cartilage defect play a critical role. The mini-prosthesis is also an excellent treatment option in cases where cartilage cell transplantation has failed.

PSI Knee Joint

Patient-Specific Instrumentation (PSI) involves creating custom surgical tools tailored to the anatomy of the individual patient. These tools allow for millimeter-precise implantation of the knee prosthesis. In selected cases, it may even be necessary to implant a custom-made prosthesis. This modern 3D technology greatly enhances the precision of knee joint replacement and also enables accurate correction of axial misalignments, which may be required depending on existing wear or deformity.

Arthroscopic Procedures

Arthroscopic knee surgery has been a well-established technique for decades. Since the knee joint is relatively easy to access, an increasing number of procedures can now be performed arthroscopically. In fact, knee arthroscopy is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in Germany. However, when multiple treatment options are available, choosing the right one requires a precise diagnosis and careful planning. At Procelsio Clinic, we have many years of experience with knee arthroscopy and arthroscopically assisted surgical techniques. We cover the full spectrum of reconstructive knee procedures. As a clinic with advanced expertise in knee joint replacement, we are also able to accurately assess the limits of arthroscopic treatment and offer our patients well-founded guidance.

Cartilage Cell Transplantation

Preserving the natural joint is always the central goal at Procelsio Clinic. Trauma and other causes can result in deep, isolated cartilage defects—particularly in the knee and hip joints. If left untreated, these can progress to osteoarthritis. Whereas such damage used to be treated using microfracture techniques (which create short-lived replacement tissue), the current standard is autologous chondrocyte transplantation. This involves implanting cartilage cells grown from the patient’s own tissue in a lab to fill the defect. The resulting tissue is comparable in durability and quality to healthy cartilage. In the knee, this technique has been used successfully for nearly 20 years. In 2011, Procelsio Clinic was the first center in Germany to apply this procedure to the hip joint – and remains one of the few clinics to master this method today.

Cartilage damage and osteoarthritis in the knee joint occur in many forms and severity levels. As a result, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Thanks to our wide range of surgical techniques and available implants, we can provide comprehensive treatment options – from joint-preserving approaches to complex revision surgeries. If preservation is no longer possible, a thorough diagnosis (including X-rays, MRI, and sometimes arthroscopy) helps determine the extent of damage, including the condition of menisci, cruciate, and collateral ligaments. Based on the patient’s activity level, implant longevity, and other personal factors, we work together to choose the best possible treatment.