What is an arthroscopic chondroplasty?
For those who are experiencing mild to moderate wear and tear in cartilage in their knee, an arthroscopic chondroplasty is a surgical procedure to improve the site of afflicted cartilage. The rundown tissue is extracted and over time, healthier cartilage will develop in its place. A tiny video camera called an arthroscope is inserted through a small incision in the knee to get a bigger, precise picture of the damaged tissue and where it is located without making a larger incision.
What can be expected from the arthroscopic chondroplasty procedure?
At the start of the arthroscopic chondroplasty procedure, tiny incisions will be made into the knee where the arthroscope will be inserted. The arthroscope is able to transmit video onto a bigger monitor, where our orthopedic experts will be able to see the inside of the knee in much greater detail and perform the procedure with enhanced precision. A special fluid in pumped into the operation area to enlarge the joint. Using surgical tools, the damaged cartilage is removed and the area is smoothed to reduce friction in the joint. Once this step has been completed, the fluid administered at the beginning of the procedure is drained and the incisions are sealed. Over time, healthier cartilage will grow in the place of the site where the worn cartilage was removed.
What is the recovery process like?
Recovery from an arthroscopic chondroplasty is generally faster than open knee surgery. Our orthopedic experts will provide you with aftercare instructions to best optimize your health and wellness. Patients will need to have a driver for the following week after their procedure, but they may return to driving themselves between 1-3 weeks after their procedural day.
If your quality of everyday life is compromised from joint discomfort in the knee, contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment so we may restore your wellness!