FP11.3 Long-Term Outcomes of Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis versus Microfracturing for large Acetabular Cartilage Lesions in Cam-Type FAI - A 14 to 16 year matched cohort analysis

Abstract

Abstract ICLB11 - The Biologic Arsenal: Essential Cartilage Repair and Orthobiologics in Early Osteoarthritis, Session Room 12 (BMCC Level 3), October 9, 2026, 10:30 - 12:30 This study reports the long-term outcomes of arthroscopic autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC) compared with microfracture for the treatment of acetabular cartilage lesions in cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). A consecutive series of 16 patients treated with AMIC was compared with an age- and lesion-matched cohort of 16 patients treated with microfracture. Mean follow-up was 13.7 years in the AMIC group and 15.7 years in the microfracture group. At final follow-up, mean Harris Hip Score (HHS) was 96.5 in the AMIC group and 92.3 in the microfracture group (P = 0.067). Mean UCLA activity score was 8.9 and 8.2, respectively (P = 0.15). Conversion to hip arthroplasty occurred in 5/16 patients (31%) in the AMIC group and 7/14 patients (50%) in the microfracture group (P = 0.46). Failures in the microfracture group occurred predominantly within the first 3 years, whereas failures following AMIC were more evenly distributed over time. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated a more favourable survivorship pattern for AMIC. Patients treated with AMIC required significantly fewer postoperative intra-articular injections compared to microfracture (P = 0.002). Both techniques provide sustained clinical improvement at long-term follow-up. Although functional outcomes were comparable, AMIC demonstrated a trend towards improved durability, fewer early failures, and reduced postoperative morbidity.