Matrix-associated stem cell transplantation (MAST) in chondral defects of foot and ankle is effective

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility and clinical results of matrix-associated stem cell transplantation (MAST) and 2-year-follow-up in chondral defects of foot and ankle. Methods: In a prospective, consecutive, non-controlled clinical follow-up study, all patients with chondral defects, that were treated with MAST from April 1st to November 30th, 2009 were analyzed. The size and location of the chondral defects, method-associated problems and the Visual Analogue Scale Foot and Ankle (VAS FA) before treatment and at follow-up were registered and analyzed. Results: Twenty-six chondral defects in 25 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 33 years (range, 16–48 years), 18 (72%) were male. The VAS FA before surgery was 49.2 on average (range, 24.3–68.4). The defects were located as follows: medial talar shoulder, n = 9; lateral talar shoulder, n = 13 (medial and lateral talar shoulder, n = 1); distal tibia, n = 1; posterior calcaneal facet, n = 1; head of 1st metatarsal, n = 2. The defect size was 1.1 cm2 on average (range, .5–6 cm2). All patients completed 2-year-followup. No complications or consecutive surgeries were registered. The mean VAS FA at follow-up was 94.5 (range, 73.4–100; t-test, p < .01). Conclusions: MAST led to good clinical scores. No complications were registered. Even though a control group is missing, we conclude that MAST is a safe and effective method for the treatment of chondral defects. The main advantage of MAST in comparison with ACI and MACI is the single procedure methodology. The advantage in comparison with AMIC is the potential higher concentration of stem cells.