Cartilage Restoration — MACI Procedure (Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation)

UW Health Sports Medicine · UW Health Sports Rehabilitation; UW Health Sports Medicine physician group

Weight-Bearing

TF: axillary crutches, PWB ≤30% BW, brace 0-45° (Phase I); PF: PWB ≤50% BW, locked extension (Phase I); WBAT Phase III

Key Restrictions

No impact until Phase IV (3-6 months); TF closed chain exercises limited to <50° knee flex in Phase III; TF and PF graft variants have distinct WB/ROM restrictions; some patients advised against lifetime impact sport

Timeline & Phases

Phase I (0-3 wks): PWB, ROM 0-90° TF/0-60° PF; Phase II (4-6 wks): PWB ≤60%/WBAT, ROM 0-125°; Phase III (7-12 wks): WBAT, full ROM, CKC <50°; Phase IV (3-6 mo): non-impact sport (LSI ≥85%); Phase V (9-16 mo): impact and RTS (LSI ≥90%, force plate)

Notes

5-phase criterion-based protocol. TF and PF graft variants have distinct WB/ROM restrictions. Phase V may not apply if patient is advised to minimize lifetime impact sports. Copyright 2019, updated 08/2025.

Surgeon / Author

UW Health Sports Rehabilitation; UW Health Sports Medicine physician group

Published

2025-08