I have osteoarthitis and had torn tendon's. Since the pain is constant with any weight bearing, I just ask a OS to do a Total Knee replacement. He wouldn't do it. He said the Microfracture would grown new cartlidge and I would be out of pain. He said a knee replacement was only good for 10 to 15 yrs. I let him do it, I thought I would be out of pain. Well, 10 months later the pain is still the same. He did not have me go to Rehab. I week post op he said for me to only use a cane, mainly so people would be more tolerant of my slower walking. Still 10 months later the swelling is still as bad along with the pain. I believe the OS knew it wouldn't work, and would get repeat business for a knee replacement surgery. He makes out great financially!