Cartilage Regenerative Surgery

Over the years, Mr Ashok Marudanayagam has performed numerous foot and ankle surgeries, dealing with a wide range of conditions. His experience in the operating room has allowed him to refine his skills and adopt the latest surgical techniques, including microfracture technology.

Microfracture is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to repair cartilage damage.
Mr Marudanayagam’s expertise in this area involves:

Diagnosis and Patient Selection: Identifying suitable candidates for microfracture surgery based on the extent and location of cartilage damage.
Surgical Technique: Performing the procedure with precision, which involves creating small fractures in the subchondral bone to stimulate the growth of new cartilage.
Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation: Developing comprehensive rehabilitation plans to ensure optimal recovery and long-term success for patients.
Research and Continuous Education: To stay at the forefront of his field, Mr Marudanayagam engages in ongoing research and participates in professional development opportunities such as conferences, workshops, and seminars. This commitment to continuous learning ensures he remains updated on the latest advancements in foot and ankle surgery and cartilage repair techniques.

Professional Affiliations and Contributions: Being actively involved in professional organizations and possibly contributing to medical literature through research publications and presentations further establishes his reputation as an expert in his specialty.

Mr. Ashok Marudanayagam’s combination of education, specialized training, extensive clinical experience, and commitment to ongoing professional development underpins his expertise in microfracture technology and foot and ankle surgeries, making him a trusted specialist in his field.

AMIC (Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis) ankle surgery is a procedure used to repair cartilage defects in the ankle joint. This technique combines microfracture surgery, which creates small holes in the subchondral bone to stimulate the formation of new cartilage, with the application of a biomaterial matrix that supports the growth and differentiation of new cartilage cells.

Here’s a breakdown of the AMIC procedure:

Microfracture Technique: Small holes are made in the subchondral bone beneath the damaged cartilage to allow bone marrow cells to access the defect. These cells can then form a clot that serves as the foundation for new cartilage growth.

Application of Biomaterial Matrix: A collagen matrix or scaffold is applied over the microfractured area. This matrix provides a structure for the new cartilage cells to adhere to and grow, promoting better organisation and integration of the new tissue.

Autologous Cell Growth: The body’s own cells (autologous cells) are attracted to the matrix, where they proliferate and differentiate into cartilage cells (chondrocytes), leading to the regeneration of hyaline-like cartilage.

AMIC surgery is minimally invasive and can be performed arthroscopically, which reduces recovery time and the risk of complications compared to more invasive procedures. It is typically recommended for patients with localised cartilage damage in the ankle joint who have not responded to conservative treatments. The goal of AMIC ankle surgery is to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent further joint degeneration


The OATS (Osteochondral Autograft Transfer System) procedure is a surgical technique used to treat focal cartilage defects in joints, such as the knee or ankle. This procedure involves transplanting healthy cartilage and underlying bone from a non-weight-bearing area of the joint to the damaged area. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the OATS procedure:

Harvesting the Graft: A cylindrical plug of healthy cartilage and bone is harvested from a non-weight-bearing area of the joint, typically from the outer edges of the femur in the knee or a similar area in the ankle. This area is chosen because it can donate tissue without significantly affecting joint function.

Preparing the Defect Site: The damaged cartilage and underlying bone are removed from the defect site, creating a hole that matches the size and shape of the graft.

Transplanting the Graft: The harvested osteochondral plug is then transplanted into the prepared defect site. The plug is press-fitted into place, ensuring a stable and secure fit.

Integration and Healing: Over time, the transplanted cartilage and bone integrate with the surrounding tissues, restoring the joint surface. The transplanted cartilage provides a smooth, durable surface for joint movement, while the underlying bone supports the cartilage and helps it heal and function properly.

The OATS procedure is typically used for young, active patients with small to medium-sized cartilage defects that have not responded to conservative treatments. It is particularly effective for isolated lesions where the surrounding cartilage is healthy.

Advantages of the OATS procedure include:

Biological Repair: Uses the patient’s own tissue, reducing the risk of rejection or disease transmission.
Durability: Transplanted cartilage can provide a long-lasting solution to cartilage defects.
Functionality: Helps restore normal joint function and relieve pain.