Explanation:
Microfracture is a marrow-stimulating technique. An arthroscopic awl is used to penetrate the subchondral bone plate, creating small holes. This releases marrow elements, including mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors, into the defect. These cells form a super-clot and subsequently differentiate into fibrocartilage, which is primarily composed of Type I collagen (unlike normal hyaline cartilage, which is primarily Type II). ACI involves expanding harvested chondrocytes ex vivo; OATS and allografts involve transferring intact mature hyaline cartilage and bone. Reference: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics, 14th Edition.