Abrasion Arthroplasty Joint Preservation
When cartilage on the surface of a joint becomes worn, torn, or rough, it creates friction and inflammation that lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Unlike smooth, healthy cartilage that allows bones to glide freely against one another, damaged cartilage catches and grinds with every movement — accelerating further deterioration over time. Abrasion arthroplasty is one of several minimally invasive joint preservation techniques designed to address this damage directly, smoothing the cartilage surface and stimulating the body’s own healing response to extend the life and function of the natural joint.
Dr. Jonathan Glashow is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and Clinical Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, with specialized fellowship training in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute/UCLA. Over a career spanning more than 30 years and 15,000 procedures, he has become one of the most experienced arthroscopic surgeons in the country — trusted as Chief Medical Officer for the New Jersey Devils and Philadelphia 76ers, and recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor every year since 2000. Dr. Glashow performs abrasion arthroplasty and other joint preservation procedures at his Upper East Side practice using the most advanced arthroscopic techniques and instrumentation available.
Minimally-Invasive Cartilage Repair
Arthroplasty refers to surgery to repair or replace joints. Abrasion arthroplasty can be an option to preserve joint function without replacing the joint. In this procedure, endoscopic techniques are used to access the damaged cartilage. A small incision is all that is needed to enter the joint using an arthroscope and precise tools. High-speed burrs are used to remove damaged cartilage and reshape it for better joint function. The procedure can also stimulate healing, extending the use and lifespan of the joint. Abrasion arthroplasty can be performed as an outpatient procedure, and recovery is quick from this minimally-invasive surgery.
Schedule a Joint Preservation Consultation in New York City
If you are experiencing joint pain caused by arthritis or cartilage damage, Dr. Glashow and his orthopedic team can determine whether abrasion arthroplasty or another joint preservation approach is right for you. Contact our Upper East Side practice to schedule your consultation — we offer same-day and next-day appointments, after-hours and weekend availability, and 24/7 emergency access.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abrasion Arthroplasty
What is abrasion arthroplasty?
Abrasion arthroplasty is a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure used to treat damaged cartilage on the surface of a joint. During the procedure, Dr. Glashow uses high-speed burrs inserted through a small incision to carefully remove rough, torn, or jagged cartilage and reshape the joint surface. This creates a smoother surface for improved joint movement and also stimulates the underlying bone to produce new fibrocartilage — a healing response that can extend the functional life of the joint.
Who is a good candidate for abrasion arthroplasty?
This procedure is typically recommended for patients with localized cartilage damage or early-to-moderate osteoarthritis who want to preserve their natural joint and delay or avoid joint replacement. Ideal candidates have cartilage damage confined to a specific area of the joint rather than widespread, bone-on-bone degeneration. Dr. Glashow evaluates each patient’s imaging, symptoms, and activity goals to determine whether abrasion arthroplasty is the most effective approach.
How is abrasion arthroplasty different from a total joint replacement?
Abrasion arthroplasty is a joint preservation procedure — it repairs and reshapes the existing cartilage surface rather than replacing the joint entirely. The procedure is performed arthroscopically through a small incision, requires significantly less recovery time than joint replacement surgery, and preserves the patient’s natural anatomy. For many patients, abrasion arthroplasty can meaningfully extend joint function and postpone or eliminate the need for replacement.
What does recovery look like after abrasion arthroplasty?
Because the procedure is minimally invasive and performed on an outpatient basis, recovery is considerably faster than traditional open surgery. Most patients can begin gentle range-of-motion exercises within the first few days and return to daily activities within one to two weeks. A structured physical therapy program helps restore strength and mobility, and Dr. Glashow monitors progress closely to ensure optimal healing. A full return to higher-impact activities typically occurs within six to twelve weeks depending on the extent of the cartilage damage treated.
Can abrasion arthroplasty be combined with other joint preservation treatments?
Yes. Dr. Glashow often combines abrasion arthroplasty with complementary therapies such as bone marrow concentrate injections, amniotic fluid grafts, or percutaneous drilling to maximize the healing response and provide more comprehensive joint restoration. The specific combination of treatments depends on the nature and severity of the cartilage damage, and Dr. Glashow tailors each treatment plan to the individual patient.
How long do the results of abrasion arthroplasty last?
Results vary based on the extent of the original cartilage damage, the patient’s activity level, and overall joint health. Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility that lasts for years, particularly when the procedure is combined with appropriate rehabilitation and activity modification. For patients whose cartilage continues to deteriorate over time, Dr. Glashow can discuss additional joint preservation options or, when necessary, transition to more definitive treatments.
