Knee pain can severely affect your quality of life. If your knee pain is caused by articular cartilage damage, abrasion arthroplasty can help reduce your knee pain and get you back to an active lifestyle.
What is Abrasion Arthroplasty?
Abrasion arthroplasty is a procedure that promotes the growth of new cartilage in the knee. This minimally invasive procedure involves drilling the bone that lies underneath the cartilage, called the subchondral bone. This drilling promotes a bleeding and healing response, where the area develops fibrous tissue that can replace the damaged cartilage.
Abrasion Arthroplasty Procedure
After your physician drills a small hole in the subchondral bone, he will insert a camera to visually inspect the damaged area. This also allows your physician to locate any bone spurs or other anomalies that can be the source of your pain. He will use small tools to abrade the area, which stimulates blood flow. Stem cells then can flood the area and produce fibrocartilage.
Are You a Good Candidate?
There are specific conditions that are suggested for abrasion arthroplasty:
- Degenerative arthritis
- Loss of space in the joint
- Exposed sclerotic lesion
- Older individuals
- Failure of other therapies or treatments
Abrasion Arthroplasty Recovery
You may require the use of crutches for 6-8 weeks if the procedure is performed on a weight-bearing area. You will be instructed to avoid placing excess weight on the joint during your recovery. You will also be advised to avoid climbing stairs, squatting or walking on steep inclines. Walking is an excellent way to promote healing, so regular walking is encouraged. Depending on the severity of the repair, your recovery may take up to 12 weeks before you are able to resume normal daily activities.
If you suffer from knee pain, abrasion arthroplasty may be the treatment you need to restore your quality of life. Call the office of Jonathan L. Glashow, MD today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Glashow and his team are experienced in abrasion arthroplasty and will ensure that you understand the procedure and will answer any questions you may have.
