A Pilot Study Comparing Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis and Microfracture for Hip Cartilage Damage in Adults Aged 18 to 55

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare two surgical treatments for people aged 18 to 55 years undergoing primary hip arthroscopy due to a focal cartilage defect in the acetabulum. It is a pilot randomized controlled trial assessing the effects of autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis AMIC versus microfracture on hip function, quality of life, pain, cartilage repair, and health utility over two years. The study follows participants for 24 months with scheduled check-ins at 6 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months after surgery. During surgery, all participants will have unstable cartilage removed and microfracture performed by making small holes in the bone to encourage healing. Those in the AMIC group will also receive a collagen matrix implant placed over the cartilage defect to support tissue repair. This matrix is secured precisely and checked arthroscopically to ensure proper placement. Both treatments are done during the same surgical procedure. Participants will attend follow-up visits at set intervals over two years to assess their hip function using the International Hip Outcome Tool iHOT-33 and other measures such as pain, cartilage repair via MRI scoring, health status, and any adverse events. Researchers will monitor changes from before surgery to 24 months afterward to evaluate the treatments effects. The trial is led by McMaster University and includes detailed assessments to understand outcomes and safety.

AMIC Compared With Microfracture for Focal Articular Cartilage Damage of the Hip