Overview
OATS transfers small plugs of cartilage and bone from a non‑weight‑bearing area to a defect.

Indications
Small to moderate cartilage defects in active patients.

Procedure overview
Cylindrical plugs are harvested and press‑fit into the defect.

Recovery
Protected weight‑bearing with structured therapy.

Risks and complications
Donor‑site pain and graft failure.

Alternatives
Microfracture or allograft for larger lesions.