By LIZZIE PARRY
Surgeons have designed a new operation which they hope could prevent the development of arthritis and extend sporting careers.
The procedure, which is currently being trialled at Southampton General Hospital, involves coating damaged cartilage with stem cells, taken from a patient’s own hip, and surgical glue.
If successful, it will regenerate the remaining tissue and create a permanent ‘like-for-like’ replacement for the first time.
Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue that covers the surface of joints and enables bones to slide over one another while reducing friction and acting as a shock absorber.
Damage to the tissue in the knee is common and occurs mainly following sudden twists or direct blows, such as falls or heavy tackles playing sports such as football and rugby, but can also develop over time through gradual wear and tear.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2702703/New-knee-op-using-stem-cells-stop-arthritis-extend-sporting-careers.html#ixzz38JT1Lnnh
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
