Orthopedic & Muscular System: Current Research
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Knee Cartilage Surgery

Knee Cartilage Surgery is the surgery to reshape knee cartilage is knee chondroplasty—“Chondro” refers to cartilage and “plasty” means to form or mold. Chondroplasty may be performed on a knee's articular cartilage, meniscus, or both. Knee chondroplasty is often done in conjunction with debridement

Most cartilage repair surgeries can be done at convenient outpatient facilities with advanced minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Skendzel explains how postsurgical recovery steps promote the best surgical outcomes for cartilage replacement procedures.

For the first few days after knee cartilage surgery, patient recovery guidelines for cartilage repairs are similar to the guidelines for any knee surgery. The focus is on knee elevation, pain relief, ice to control swelling, incision protection, and rest.

“A few days after surgery, I meet with my patients to evaluate the healing process and begin postoperative treatment,” says Dr. Skendzel. “Patients should be prepared to be on crutches for six weeks. To encourage cartilage healing, patients will also use a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine. Cartilage isn’t fed by nutrients from blood vessels, but by nutrients from the synovial fluid in the joint. We know from the scientific literature that in order for the fluid to deliver proper nourishment to the cartilage, the knee has to be moving. The CPM machine straightens and bends the knee without pressure or stress on the joint. This continual motion supports good nourishment to the cartilage cells.”

Most patients are able to return to some physical activity after six to eight weeks, but full recovery after cartilage repair surgery can take anywhere from three to six months.