Microfracture is a surgical technique used to treat cartilage damage in joints, particularly in the knee. The procedure involves creating tiny fractures in the underlying bone, which stimulates the body to produce new cartilage. This new cartilage is usually fibrocartilage, which is not as durable as the original cartilage but can help reduce pain and improve function. The microfracture procedure is often performed arthroscopically, meaning it uses small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon. It is typically recommended for patients with small, localized cartilage defects and is considered a less invasive option compared to other surgical methods.