What is the MACI Procedure—and Could It Help You Avoid Knee Replacement?

By Dr. Daniel Romanelli, Orthopedic Surgeon – Rio Grande Valley

If you're a young or active adult dealing with persistent knee pain caused by cartilage damage, you may have already tried physical therapy, injections, or even surgery—with limited success. But there’s good news: modern orthopedic medicine has a solution that goes beyond traditional repair techniques. It's called MACI, and it's helping people stay active longer—without jumping straight to knee replacement.

What is the MACI Procedure?

MACI stands for Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation. In simpler terms, it’s a cutting-edge, FDA-approved procedure that uses your body’s own cartilage cells to repair damaged areas in your knee.

Here’s how it works:

Cartilage Cell Collection: During a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure, a small sample of healthy cartilage is taken from your knee.
Cell Cultivation: That sample is sent to a specialized lab where your cartilage cells are grown and embedded onto a flexible collagen membrane.
Implantation: A few weeks later, Dr. Romanelli surgically implants that membrane into the damaged area of your knee. The cells then continue to grow, integrating with your existing cartilage to restore smooth, functional tissue.

Who is a Candidate for MACI?

MACI is ideal for patients who:

Are between 18 and 55 years old
Have a focal cartilage defect (localized damage, not widespread arthritis)
Lead an active lifestyle or want to return to high-impact activities
Have tried other treatments (like microfracture or debridement) without lasting relief

It’s especially beneficial for patients who aren’t quite ready for a knee replacement but still need a long-term solution to relieve pain and restore mobility.

Benefits of MACI

Uses your own cells – reducing the risk of rejection
Targets the root problem – regenerates actual cartilage, not just masking symptoms
Delays or prevents knee replacement – especially in younger, active patients
Improves function and reduces pain – with outcomes that last

What to Expect After the Procedure

MACI recovery takes time, but it’s worth the investment. You’ll follow a structured rehab plan that includes physical therapy, gradual return to weight-bearing, and strengthening exercises tailored to your lifestyle and activity goals.

Most patients see significant improvement in knee function within 6 to 12 months—and many return to running, sports, or high-impact work with less pain and greater confidence.

Is MACI Right for You?

The only way to know for sure is to consult with a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who is trained in advanced cartilage restoration procedures. Dr. Romanelli has helped countless patients in the Rio Grande Valley regain mobility and avoid more invasive surgeries through personalized treatment plans that include options like MACI.

You Don’t Have to Live with Chronic Knee Pain

If you're struggling with cartilage damage and looking for a real solution, let’s talk. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Romanelli today to find out if MACI is right for you.