What is chondroplasty?
chondroplasty is a surgery that helps to repair damaged cartilage tissue in the joint. It is most often done on a knee after traumatic injury, although patients who have injuries to other main joint joints or chronic arthritis complications may also be good candidates for the procedure. Chondroplasty usually includes minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery performed by a qualified orthopedic surgeon. Usually it can be done in about an hour in outpatient settings. Most patients who have undergone the procedure are able to approach full recovery in less than six months when they follow the instructions of their doctors about home care and proper rehabilitation exercises.
The cartilage consists of a strong connective tissue that helps stabilize and pillows. If part of the cartilage is damaged due to injury or autoimmune problem, such as arthritis, the joint can become stiff, sore and highly sensitive to future complications. Torn or worsened cartilage can notthat effectively heal because the supply of blood to the area is limited. Chondroplasty can be performed to cut the damaged cartilage and the transformation of basic healthy tissue, which provides the best possible chances of successful regeneration. The tissue of the scar that is formed after the procedure is rich in nutrients and helps to recover the joint.
Before chondroplasty, the patient may have a local or general anesthetic and sedative. The orthopedic surgeon produces one or more small cuts around the damaged joint and inserts an arthroscopic camera to guide the procedure. It then carefully unscrew the dead cartilage cells using scalpel, electric laser device or other specialized surgical tools. The remaining parts of the superficial tissue are attracted to each other and are smooth. After the procedure, surgical slices and antibiotics are treated.
Most patients can go home on the same day as their chondroplasticsOperations. They can be equipped with knee braces and give crutches to prevent excessive stress of their joints during the acute recovery phase. Rest, ice and anti -inflammatory drugs are designed to help manage pain and swelling over the first few days.
Depending on the extent of the original cartilage damage, the patient may be encouraged to start exercising during the first month or instruct to avoid activity for six weeks or more. Once the doctor confirms that the joint is healing properly, the patient may initiate a slight rehabilitation exercise. Short walks or low impact rides on a stationary bike can help support blood flow and liquid with healing joint. Over time, for most patients, a gradual return to the normal level of activity is possible.