ACDC (medicine)

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

ACDC (medicine)[edit | edit source]

An illustration of the ACDC technique applied to the knee.

The term "ACDC" in medicine refers to a specific technique or approach used in the management and treatment of certain medical conditions, particularly in the field of orthopedics. The acronym "ACDC" stands for "Arthroscopic Cartilage Debridement and Chondroplasty," which is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at treating cartilage damage in joints such as the knee.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The ACDC procedure involves the use of an arthroscope, a small camera that is inserted into the joint through a small incision. This allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint on a monitor and perform the necessary surgical interventions with precision. The main steps of the ACDC procedure include:

  • Debridement: The removal of loose or damaged cartilage fragments from the joint. This is done to prevent further damage and to create a smoother joint surface.
  • Chondroplasty: The reshaping or smoothing of the remaining cartilage to improve joint function and reduce pain.

Indications[edit | edit source]

ACDC is typically indicated for patients who have cartilage damage due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, chondromalacia, or traumatic injuries. It is often considered when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and medication, have failed to provide relief.

Benefits[edit | edit source]

The benefits of the ACDC procedure include:

  • Minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions and reduced recovery time compared to open surgery.
  • Improved joint function and pain relief.
  • Preservation of the joint structure, which may delay the need for more extensive procedures like joint replacement.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

As with any surgical procedure, ACDC carries certain risks and potential complications, including:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Damage to surrounding tissues
  • Incomplete relief of symptoms

Recovery[edit | edit source]

Recovery from the ACDC procedure typically involves a period of rest followed by a structured physical therapy program to restore joint function and strength. The duration of recovery can vary depending on the extent of the cartilage damage and the individual patient's condition.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD