Autologous, Micro-fragmented Adipose Tissue for Meniscal Tears
20 participantsStarted 2017-01-01
Plain-language summary
The menisci of the knee are essential fibro-cartilaginous structures that contribute in static weight bearing, distributing compressive forces during joint movement, joint lubrication, joint stabilization, and proprioception. The menisci are commonly torn, interfering with these vital functions, with an estimated mean annual incidence as high as 60-70 per 100,000 knee injuries. When torn, the odds of developing future osteoarthritis within 2 years of follow-up can be as high as 5.92. The management of meniscal tears remains a challenge given the poor intrinsic healing capacity of tears occurring in the inner, avascular, portion of the meniscus where direct surgical repair techniques are commonly unsuccessful. Autologous adipose tissue injection has recently emerged as a promising new treatment for joint pain and soft tissue injury. Adipose can be used to provide cushioning and filling of structural defects and has been shown to have an abundance of bioactive elements and regenerative perivascular cells (pericytes).The aim of this study is to explore the potential of Lipogems® micro-fragmented adipose tissue as a meaningful treatment option for meniscus tears. Patients treated with MFAT with intra-meniscal injections under continuous ultrasound guidance are expected to report clinically meaningful improvements in knee pain and knee function after one year. Knee pain and function will be measured using a numerical pain scale (NPS) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS).
Who can participate
Age range
35 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age 35 and older
* Symptoms consistent with torn meniscus (at least one of clicking popping, giving way, pain with pivot or torque, pain that is episodic)
* Pain that can be provoked by palpitation or compression of the joint line.
* Pain located in the medial joint line that has persisted for at least 3 months.
* MRI or arthroscopic evidence of meniscal tear.
* Failed conservative treatment which has included: anti-inflammatory or other medications for pain; physical therapy; injections including corticosteroid injections and/or hyaluronic acid injections.
* This would include patients who have been told by an orthopedic surgeon that they would be a candidate for arthroscopic partial meniscectomy.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Chronically locked knee.
* Prior surgery performed on effected knee
* Assessment showing anything other than degenerative tears of the medial meniscus requiring surgical intervention.
* Recent (within 6 weeks) treatment with PRP, cortisone oral or by injection, or Hyaluronic injection.
* Any disease or condition the investigator feels would hinder treatment.
* Any contra-indication to lipoaspirate which includes: bleeding disorder, infection, pregnancy; allergy to anesthetic agents.
* Malignancy within the last 5 years.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.