You are spot on. The techniques are improving. The Denovo NT is comparable to Autologous Chondrocite Implantation (ACI). Unfortunately, my health benefits don't cover either. The cheaper, and almost as good a track record is Denovo NT ($8,500 vs $60,000)
Denovo NT, they take cartilage from a young cadaver (cells are still reproducing rapidly in young person) and implant into damaged cartilage situs (some restrictions apply). An adhesive is applied to prevent implant from moving from situs area. The implanted cartilage begins to regenerate new cartilage and blend with surrounding area. In approx 10 months, patient should see significant reduction in bone on bone pain, swelling, and improved qol. After 2 yrs, patient will be at max benefit point (no more improvement) and should not see any degradation of qol in previous lesion area.

 

I am about to start a course of treatment for a possible meniscal tear. I have read the above posts but I would like to know more about the treatments you have experienced. I would also like to know whether you have had any other problems with the knee in the years after the treatment.
Finally what did the FAA require you to do before the reissue of your medical? Was any simulator test involved.

 

My dad had a total knee replacement last year, and I think he was back in the skies within 4 or 5 weeks. Could have been quicker but he took his time getting back to the AME.

 

Does anyone know of a good knee surgeon in west palm beach.

 

I had a bucket handle tear of the lateral meniscus (surgically repaired) and then a bleed within the bone marrow of the same knee. I have been off work for nine months but I am going back to work next week.

 

I had both hips replaced at 40 years old in 2012. Both my military flight status and FAA Class 1 in 8 weeks after the second one completed (surgery was 6 weeks apart). Went Med Down - 03 Jan and Med Up - 17 Jun

I wish I had not waited so long to have it done, QOL is outstanding...I swim 1 mile 5 days a week now. Doc said non-impact exercise will make them last longer.

HIGHLY recommend Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze, FL

 

I had ACL replacement in 1994 and a bucket handle tear of miniscus fixed in 2007. Out 3 months and 1 week each. Best decision to date.