Spongialization or subchondral bone resection
This is yet another approach which relies on the spontaneous cartilage repair after a blood clot. The Procedure consists of the complete removal or resection of the subchondral bone plate which exposes the cancellous (tabercular) bone or spongelosa. This removal causes bleeding with a subsequent formation of the fibrous cartilage. Because of the difficulties in removal of the subchondral plates, usually this is done during a patellar surgery. The absence of the trials which would compare the success of treatment using this technique as opposed to other techniques is a drawback.
Image credit: Gray's Anatomy 35th edit Longman Edinburgh 1973
