Chondroplasty

Chondroplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at repairing damaged cartilage in a patient's joint. The procedure involves the surgeon reshaping the surface of the cartilage or removing loose fragments to alleviate symptoms such as pain and swelling.

Procedure

The chondroplasty procedure is typically performed arthroscopically. The surgeon makes small incisions around the joint and inserts a tiny camera, known as an arthroscope, to view the inside of the joint. Specialized instruments are then used to smooth the damaged area or remove loose pieces of cartilage.

Indications

Chondroplasty is often recommended for patients with osteoarthritis or those who have suffered a cartilage injury. The procedure can help alleviate pain and improve joint function. However, it is not suitable for all patients, particularly those with severe cartilage damage or underlying joint conditions.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, chondroplasty carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and damage to the surrounding tissues. There is also a risk that the procedure may not fully alleviate symptoms, or that symptoms may return over time.

Recovery

Recovery from chondroplasty typically involves physical therapy to restore strength and mobility to the joint. The exact length of recovery can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific joint involved.

See Also

• Arthroscopy
• Cartilage
• Osteoarthritis
• Cartilage injury

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