Arthroscopic Chondroplasty

If you need a Arthroscopic Chondroplasty, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is Arthroscopic Chondroplasty?

Arthroscopic chondroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to treat certain types of cartilage damage or defects within a joint, typically the knee joint. It is a technique that utilizes an arthroscope, a small camera, and specialized surgical instruments to access and repair the damaged cartilage.

The procedure involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is usually given regional or general anesthesia to ensure comfort and pain control during the surgery.
2. Arthroscopic Access: Small incisions, typically less than half an inch in length, are made around the joint. The arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions to provide a clear view of the joint structures on a monitor.
3. Evaluation of the Cartilage: The surgeon examines the damaged cartilage using the arthroscope. The extent and nature of the cartilage damage, such as loose or frayed pieces, rough surfaces, or areas of wear and tear, are assessed.
4. Cartilage Treatment: The surgeon uses specialized surgical instruments, inserted through additional small incisions if necessary, to perform the chondroplasty. The specific technique used depends on the characteristics of the cartilage damage. Common techniques include debridement (removal of loose or damaged cartilage), smoothing or reshaping rough surfaces, and microfracture (creating small holes in the underlying bone to stimulate cartilage healing).
5. Closure: At the end of the procedure, the incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Arthroscopic chondroplasty is typically performed as a day surgery, and most patients can go home on the same day. Rehabilitation following the procedure may involve a period of rest and protection of the joint, followed by a gradual return to physical therapy exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and function. The recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the cartilage damage and the individual’s healing capacity.

Arthroscopic chondroplasty is suitable for certain types of cartilage injuries, such as focal cartilage defects or areas of degeneration, that have the potential for repair or improvement. However, it may not be suitable for more extensive cartilage damage or advanced arthritis cases, where other treatment options such as cartilage transplantation or joint replacement may be considered.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with arthroscopic chondroplasty, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, damage to surrounding structures, persistent pain, and limited improvement in symptoms.

It is important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint preservation and cartilage repair to determine if arthroscopic chondroplasty is appropriate for your specific cartilage condition. The surgeon will evaluate your individual circumstances, review imaging studies, and provide personalized treatment recommendations.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.