Abstract #3973

T2 Relaxation Time of Matrix-Based Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantations (MACT) and Corresponding Healthy Cartilage of the Knee a Prospective 2-Year Follow-Up Study

Annie Horng¹, Matthias Pietschmann², Jos Raya¹, Peter Mueller², Maximilian F. Reiser¹, Christian Glaser¹

¹Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospitals LMU Munich - Campus Grosshadern, Munich, Bavaria, Germany; ²Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospitals LMU Munich - Campus Grosshadern, Munich, Bavaria, Germany

Experiences in quantitative T2 mapping of matrix-based autologeous chondrocyte transplantations (MACT) are only available from cross-sectional studies. This first prospective longitudinal study analyses T2 relaxation time of MACT and other cartilage compartments of the operated knee. Results support the clinical experience of continuous remodelling of MACT for 1-2y after operation before reaching normal T2 values. Transient T2 alterations are observed in the cartilage opposite to MACT which might be due to operational trauma or biomechanical changes in the joint. In summary T2 imaging provides a potential tool for postoperative monitoring of cartilage repair and might contribute to predict posttherapeutical evolution.