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Articular cartilage can be damaged by injury or normal wear and tear, resulting in a joint surface that is no longer smooth. Damaged cartilage does not heal itself well, so doctors have developed surgical techniques to stimulate the growth of new cartilage. This procedure is used most commonly for the knee and most candidates are young adults with a single injury or lesion. Restoring articular cartilage can relieve pain, allow improved function, and delay or prevent the onset of arthritis.

In a normal knee, the kneecap fits nicely in the femoral groove, allowing you to walk, run, sit, stand, and move easily. But if the groove is uneven or too shallow, the kneecap can slide off, resulting in a partial or complete dislocation. A sharp blow to the kneecap, as in a fall, can also pop the kneecap out of place. When this happens, the MPFL is usually torn and this makes it more likely for it to happen again.