Cartilage

Name: Cartilage Treatment
Creator: Prof Paul Lee

Find modern, industry-leading treatment for damaged cartilage through our dedicated services at London Cartilage Clinic.

Cartilage Repair

Cartilage repair surgery is often done arthroscopically, which is done using a tiny camera to get a clear view of the inside of your knee. Small surgical instruments are then used to safely and precisely trim, smooth, or remove cartilage.

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Cartilage Regeneration

Cartilage regeneration is a newer, more technologically advanced method of treatment for cartilage damage that is in high demand. It broadly speaking involves taking healthy cartilage cells from the knee and injecting them into the damaged area.

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Cartilage Replacement

The cartilage replacement procedure is minimally invasive and completed using keyhole surgical techniques. It aims to find the defect in the cartilage, freshen it, and replace it with liquid cartilage to cure the defect in the joint.

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

Cartilage specialist consultation in clinic

What is cartilage?

Cartilage is strong and flexible connective tissue that protects your bones when your joints move, helping prevent them from rubbing together. It can become damaged over time due to repetitive wear and tear, arthritis, or injury. Cartilage damage is common in the knee and, if left untreated, may eventually lead to full knee replacement.

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Symptoms of knee cartilage damage

If you have knee cartilage damage, common symptoms can include:

Stiffness and reduced range of movement in the joint
Pain in the knee joint, both at rest and during movement
Swelling in the knee
The joint giving way, locking, or catching
A clicking or grinding sensation in the knee

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Close-up of sports-related knee pain outdoors

Specialist explaining MRI results during consultation

Treatment for cartilage damage

There are different treatment options available when it comes to cartilage damage including cartilage repair, regeneration, and cartilage replacement surgery. The best treatment option for you will depend on various factors including your age, activity level, and the severity of the damage. Book a consultation with one of our cartilage specialists to discuss your symptoms and potential treatments.

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How can London Cartilage Clinic help?

As an exclusive clinic, our specialists can provide the most innovative and effective treatments for cartilage damage so you can resume your daily activities without pain or discomfort. Our cartilage professionals have extensive experience in knee cartilage surgery and regeneration with scaffold knee cartilage treatment that ensures the best possible results for our patients.

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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.

This treatment can be applied across multiple joints. Select yours to see the full range of options we offer, organised by clinical approach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cartilage conditions does the clinic treat?

We treat a wide range of cartilage conditions, including degenerative cartilage damage, sports injuries, cartilage tears, and early arthritis. Our treatments are tailored to individual patient needs, from minimally invasive procedures to advanced surgical regenerative therapies.

How does the clinic approach cartilage regeneration?

Our approach to cartilage regeneration includes cutting-edge techniques like injections, liquid cartilage and Stem Cell / Medicinal Signaling Cell therapies. We focus on preserving and enhancing the natural regenerative capabilities of the body, using minimally invasive procedures wherever possible.

What are the latest advancements in cartilage treatment available at the clinic?

The clinic stays at the forefront of cartilage treatment by continuously incorporating the latest advancements, such as custom cartilage scaffolds, advanced MRI imaging analysis techniques for precise diagnosis, MAI motion analysis and AI-driven predictive models for personalised treatment planning.

Still have more specific concerns?

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London Cartilage Clinic

Latest Insights

Clinical updates, cartilage treatment guidance, and recovery-focused articles from our specialist team.

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14 May 2026Eleanor Hayes

Bioactive Gels for Natural Cartilage Regrowth and Joint Health

Bioactive gels represent a groundbreaking advancement in cartilage repair, promoting the natural regrowth of durable hyaline cartilage rather than just symptom relief. These gels serve as scaffolds attracting chondrocytes and stem cells to regenerate smooth, shock-absorbing cartilage, offering an innovative alternative to traditional joint injections. Clinical studies demonstrate their efficacy in filling cartilage defects, improving joint function, and reducing pain. Technologies include collagen-based and peptide-based gels that closely mimic natural cartilage matrix, enhancing cellular regeneration. Led by experts like Professor Paul Lee at the London Cartilage Clinic, these treatments combine advanced gel therapies with personalized rehabilitation for optimal outcomes. While ongoing research continues, bioactive gels offer promising long-term solutions for osteoarthritis and cartilage injury patients seeking genuine healing and improved mobility.

13 May 2026Eleanor Hayes

Dietary Strategies for Healthy Knee Cartilage

Discover how diet plays a crucial role in maintaining and repairing knee cartilage to reduce discomfort and improve mobility. Backed by expert insights and scientific research, this guide highlights key nutrients like proteins, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and zinc that support cartilage health. Explore top foods such as lean meats, oily fish, legumes, colorful fruits, and leafy greens, alongside Mediterranean diet principles to protect joints. Learn about the benefits of collagen supplements and practical meal ideas to incorporate these nutrients daily. Avoid processed foods and inflammatory diets that can accelerate cartilage wear. For lasting joint health, embrace balanced nutrition combined with professional orthopaedic guidance for optimal knee care.

13 May 2026Eleanor Hayes

Inflamed Meniscus Symptoms and Management in the UK

An inflamed meniscus, a crucial knee cartilage, causes pain, swelling, and stiffness impacting mobility. Common in athletes and older adults, inflammation arises from injury, overuse, or aging. Effective management ranges from rest and physiotherapy to surgery for severe cases. Recent studies link inflammation to osteoarthritis progression and explore molecular mechanisms like microRNAs affecting healing. Early expert assessment ensures accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment. Specialist care, as provided by orthopaedic experts like Professor Paul Lee, supports optimal recovery and pain-free movement. Awareness of symptoms and timely intervention are key to restoring knee function and preventing long-term joint damage.

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