Fresh Live Donor Osteochondral Allograft Transplant
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Fresh Live Donor Osteochondral Allograft Transplant
IRAS ID
360697
Contact name
Timothy Barlow
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Wrightington Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study evaluates a new approach to treating focal osteochondral defects (damage to the bone and cartilage surfaces) in the knee using tissue donated by patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery.
Osteochondral defects in the knee are common and challenging to treat. Currently, the UK relies on importing osteochondral grafts from deceased donors in the USA. These grafts are expensive and supplies are limited, resulting in long waiting times for patients.
During total knee replacement surgery, healthy osteochondral tissue is routinely removed and discarded. This study explores whether this "live donor" tissue can be safely and effectively used to treat patients with osteochondral defects, potentially providing a more readily available and cost-effective alternative.
The study is a prospective observational case series conducted at Wrightington Hospital. We will recruit 10-20 patients with focal osteochondral knee defects who require graft treatment. Potential donors will be identified from patients undergoing knee replacement and asked to consent to donate healthy osteochondral tissue that would otherwise be discarded. The donated tissue will be screened for infections and processed according to strict safety standards before implantation.
Recipients will undergo standard surgical treatment to implant the osteochondral graft. We will monitor their recovery and clinical outcomes over 12 months using clinical assessment, imaging, and patient-reported questionnaires.
The expected benefits include improved access to osteochondral grafts, reduced waiting times for treatment, and significant cost savings compared to current imported tissue.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/YH/0142
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jul 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion