Name of the Procedure:

Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; debridement/shaving of articular cartilage (chondroplasty)

Summary

Arthroscopic knee surgery for debridement, also known as chondroplasty, involves using a small camera and instruments to clean and smooth damaged cartilage in the knee joint through tiny incisions.

Purpose

This procedure addresses knee pain and dysfunction caused by damaged articular cartilage, often resulting from injury or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. The goal is to relieve pain, improve joint function, and slow the progression of cartilage damage.

Indications

• Persistent knee pain and swelling
• Limited range of motion
• Mechanical symptoms like catching or locking of the knee
• Cartilage damage confirmed through imaging (e.g., MRI)

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure
• Adjusting or stopping certain medications as advised by your doctor
• Undergoing pre-operative tests like bloodwork or imaging studies

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given regional or general anesthesia.
2. Small incisions are made around the knee.
3. An arthroscope (a small camera) is inserted to provide a view of the inside of the knee joint.
4. Specialized instruments are used to remove or trim the damaged cartilage.
5. The joint is inspected for other issues before closing the incisions.

Duration

Typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room nurses
• Surgical technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Knee stiffness
• Injury to surrounding structures
• Need for further surgery

Benefits

Patients can expect reduced knee pain, improved function, and a slower progression of cartilage damage. Benefits are often realized within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Recovery

• Follow post-operative instructions provided by your surgical team.
• Use crutches if recommended.
• Gradual return to normal activities within 1-3 months.
• Physical therapy may be prescribed.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections
• Total or partial knee replacement in severe cases
• Each alternative varies in invasiveness, recovery time, and outcomes.

Patient Experience

• Initial discomfort is managed with pain medication.
• Swelling and stiffness are common but improve with rest and therapy.
• Most patients report significant improvement in pain and mobility post-recovery.
• Follow typical post-surgery care for comfort and optimal recovery.