AMIC® (Autologous Matrix Induced Chondrogenesis) is a new biological cartilage repair method. This innovative technique uses the body’s own healing potential and the regenerative capacity of Mesenchymal Stem cells. It can be applied to cartilage defects that extend full thickness down to the subchondral bone and are bigger than 1-2 cm2.

The AMIC® technique is based on proven biological concepts first demonstrated by Richard Steadman with his microfracture method. The shortcoming with microfracture is that it only appears to be able to regenerate fibrocartilage and not Hyaline cartilage which is much stiffer and more resistant to shear forces. AMIC® differs from microfracture in that a cover, in the form of the Chondro-Gide® collagen matrix, is applied over the defect immediately following microfracture. This cover then traps the first few millilitres of bone marrow bleeding which contain the highest percentage of mesenchymal stem cells to form a so called ‘Superclot’. In so doing the first and most important clot is kept in place and not lost into the joint as so often happens with microfracture.The Chondro-Gide® collagen matrix forms the roof of a ‘biological chamber’ and serves to protect and contain the stem cells as they differentiate into chondrocytes, which will form a healthy regenerative cartilage.