Abrasion Arthroplasty Joint Preservation

Inflammation has a significant impact on joint deterioration. When there is friction in the joints, the body sends fluid to help protect the joint, but this can cause more pain and dysfunction over time. Cartilage damage is one of the most common causes of joint inflammation, pain and dysfunction. One of the possible treatment options for cartilage damage is abrasion arthroplasty joint preservation, available through Jonathan L. Glashow, MD at his orthopedic clinic in Miami, FL.

As wear and tear affect the cartilage in weight-bearing joints like the knee, small tears can occur. The usually smooth surface of the cartilage can become ragged with small tears and debris from damaged tissue. This rough surface can create friction when the joint moves, resulting in inflammation, stiffness and pain.

To stop further deterioration of the cartilage from the resulting inflammation, surgery can be performed to repair and remove the rough cartilage pieces on the surface. This can be accomplished with abrasion techniques using specialized surgical tools inside the joint.

Smoothing Damaged Cartilage

Abrasion arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that can slow joint deterioration, reduce pain and preserve the cartilage. To perform this procedure, arthroscopic surgical tools are used to access the knee interior through tiny incisions. A small camera is inserted through a small incision, along with a tool to grind away loose fragments on the surface of the cartilage. These tiny burrs can smooth and reshape the cartilage to allow for fluid movement in the joint.

Abrasion arthroscopy joint preservation can remove the debris and bumps on the cartilage surface that affect smooth joint movement. Reducing friction can improve inflammation and pain, slowing the deterioration of the joint. The procedure is recommended for patients with adequate cartilage that has damage in the form of fragments or small tears. It is not recommended for patients with thin cartilage or large tears – cartilage repair or replacement are better options for these patients.

To learn more about cartilage repair, restoration or replacement options to preserve joints, contact the office of Jonathan L. Glashow, MD. Call our orthopedic center to schedule a joint preservation consultation. We offer cutting-edge joint preservation treatments and cartilage restoration at our Miami location.