Arthritic conditions can be treated in a number of ways. Micro-Fracturing is often used to treat damaged cartilage. It is a surgical procedure that is performed to prevent or slow down further damage. This procedure is a means of creating minute holes in the bone to stimulate the growth of fibrocartilage. During the procedure, I will insert an arthroscope into the knee, which will allow me to see and work on the inside of the joint. I will then make tiny holes in the bone, which will release cells from the bone marrow that can build new cartilage.
Beforehand, diagnostic imaging is necessary, including a weight-bearing radiograph of the patient's fully extended knees. A 45-degree flexion posteroanterior radiograph is proven to be effective in identifying irregularly spaced joints that extension views often fail to capture. Diagnostic imaging is done to check for an intra-articular disease before performing a microfracture. I use an awl to create several tiny indents into the bone, which are first made on the outskirts of the bone, closer to the centre of the lesion. The indents are approximately 3-4mm apart to prevent them from conjoining. This is also done to preserve the subchondral plate.
Another treatment option is the administration of platelet-rich plasma injections. Platelet-rich plasma is prepared by taking blood from the patient and then separating the blood cells from the platelets during a process known as centrifugation. The formula, which has a higher concentration of platelets, stem cells and plasma than before, is then injected at the site of the damaged tissue to aid recovery.
Viscosupplementation is a procedure used to treat arthritis and involves the injection of a lubricating fluid or gel into the joint. The fluid contains ingredients that help improve movement and form scar tissue cartilage on the damaged surface of the joint.
Microfracturing is done to treat chondral defects that arise from damage to the knee’s articular cartilage. This is a common procedure to treat severe damage to the articular cartilage, extending deep within the bone.
You must wait twelve weeks before beginning non-impact training, which includes walking on the treadmill, non-resistant bike spinning and water running.
After recovery from surgery, you may return to sports, but at the same time, you must avoid high performing activities. As a result, the athletic function may decline at some point.
Johannesburg Surgical Hospital, 219 Beyers Naude Drive,
Northcliff
Randburg
2195
