Articular cartilage is an elastic, smooth, soft tissue which allows bones to interact with each other without friction or pain. Articular cartilage acts as a shock absorber for force applied to the joint during movement. When the articular cartilage is damaged whether from an injury or normal wear and tear from aging, a chondral defect can occur. Although symptoms may not appear until later in life, articular cartilage problems are very common. Most often osteoarthritis develops when this smooth, gliding surface on the end of the bone has lost its cushioning, deformity develops, and bone rubs on bone. Orthopedic knee specialist in the Boulder Colorado area specializes in treating articular cartilage defects.
What is articular cartilage defect surgery?
When non operative approaches fail to address symptoms, Dr. Austin Chen may suggest articular cartilage defect surgery. Depending on the individual, Dr. Chen may choose to either use one of two techniques, shaving or microfracture. The shaving technique is an arthroscopic surgery where Dr. Chen smoothes the shredded or frayed articular cartilage. Ideally, this treatment will decrease friction and irritation, reducing the symptoms of swelling, noise, and pain. If a microfracture technique is used, it is to encourage the growth of new cartilage into a defect. The procedure involves making multiple holes into the subchondral bone in the areas where cartilage is deficient, allowing blood vessels and bone marrow cells to be in contact with the exposed cartilage defect. This allow stem cells to fill the void out of the cartilage defect, promoting the formation of a clot, which will eventually mature into firm scar cartilage.
What is the recovery from an articular cartilage defect surgery?
Depending on the individual and type of surgery technique used, the recovery varies. Dr. Chen will discuss with you the best option for your goals and needs.
