Autologous Chrondrocyte Transplantation / Implantation Versus Existing treatments

PATIENTS
Chondral defects
Why ACTIVE?
Which Hospitals?
Your Participation

PROFESSIONALS
News
People
Study Documents
Surgeons
Local Coordinators
Assessors
Rehab Physios
Funding
Links  
Contacts

Welcome to the ACTIVE trial web site. ACTIVE is a large multi-centre randomised trial designed to compare the long term effectiveness of a cell grafting technique known as autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) with existing surgical treatments for articular cartilage defects in the knee. The surgical treatments in the trial all aim to relieve painful symptoms and help patients return to an active lifestyle. However, there is still great debate as to which is the best treatment for articular cartilage defects in the knee. But one thing is clear - without effective treatment such defects can lead to further destructive joint disease requiring a total knee replacement.

If you are a patient with an interest in the trial you will find relevant information and downloadable leaflets under the section "Patients" . Further information and documents are available for collaborating centres and professionals involved in the trial under the section "professionals". It is hoped that this site will continue to grow and the Trial Manager welcomes feedback from users with any relevant information or suggestions.

This web site was launched on 15.04.2005

ACTIVE is being carried out by the Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic & District Hospital NHS Trust in collaboration with the University of Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit and Health Economics Facility. The trial is funded by the Medical Research Council and administrated by Keele University.