An implant for repair of a cartilaginous defect in a subject includes a collagen matrix charged with synovial cells. A method preparing an implant for repair of a cartilaginous defect in a subject includes obtaining a fluid containing synovial cells and charging the synovial cells to the matrix. A device for preparing a cell-charged implant includes a first chamber and a second chamber, the first and second chambers being separated by a membrane and a perforated filter. The membrane is adapted to collect cells from a cell-containing fluid introduced into the first chamber and the perforated filter is adapted to permit passage or diffusion of the fluid through the second chamber. A method for preparing a cell-charged implant utilizes the device.