Conference as part of the search for a professor in Orthopaedics.
Summary: Extensive knee cartilage defects impair function in young patients and remain a therapeutic challenge. A translational approach enabled Switzerland’s first GMP-compliant, in-hospital treatment using autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). A novel hPL-supplemented culture medium enhanced cell proliferation while preserving chondrogenicity. Stepwise regulatory approvals allowed a prospective phase II clinical trial (n=84; mean FU 3 years), confirming efficacy and identifying biological determinants for outcomes. In parallel, to optimize cell delivery, a photo-curable adhesive hydrogel is being developed, with encouraging results in vitro and in preclinical models. This program demonstrates that effective cartilage cell therapy is feasible in a public hospital, with production supporting safety and ongoing optimization.
(Teaching Presentation: «Docteur, ai-je une lésion du ligament croisé antérieur?»)