Know All About Joint Preservation Surgery

Joint preservation surgery is a type of orthopaedic surgery that aims to repair or regenerate damaged joint tissue in order to preserve the function of the joint and delay the need for joint replacement surgery. This type of surgery is often used to treat early-stage joint degeneration or injury, is typically less invasive and has a faster recovery time compared to joint replacement surgery.

There are several different types of joint preservation surgery, including:

1. Osteotomy: This procedure involves cutting and reshaping bone in order to correct deformities or improve the alignment of the joint.
2. Cartilage repair: This surgery is used to repair damaged or worn cartilage, which is the smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones and helps them move smoothly against each other. Cartilage repair surgery can be performed using a variety of techniques, including microfracture, autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), and osteochondral allograft transplantation.
3. Meniscal repair: The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that helps to cushion and stabilize the joint. Meniscal repair surgery is used to repair tears in the meniscus.
4. Ligament reconstruction: This surgery is used to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and help to stabilize joints.

Joint preservation surgery can be an effective treatment option for people with early-stage joint degeneration or injury. It can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay the need for joint replacement surgery. However, it is not always a suitable treatment option, and the decision to undergo joint preservation surgery should be made on a case-by-case basis after careful evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon.

If you are experiencing joint pain or have been diagnosed with joint degeneration or injury, it is important to speak with an orthopedic surgeon to determine the best treatment option for you.