osteoarthritis, surgery

Surgery

Surgery types

Depending on the severity of articular arthrosis and the location, there are certain operations that may be appropriate. These operations involve the mechanical engagement with the affected joint(s).

Arthroscopy

This is considered a “minimally invasive” surgery. Under local anaesthesia, a small opening usually only the size of a pinhead is used to insert a camera into the affected joint.

This is commonly performed on knee joints and the purpose is to determine the degree of damage and take appropriate measures to limit the progression of joint destruction.

Knee lavage

This procedure is often performed as part of an arthroscopy. The aim is to remove any cartilage residue that is located in the synovial fluid. These fragments could lead to increased friction and further knee joint damage.

This is a controversial procedure and opinions are divided on the effectiveness of joint lavage. Although many orthopaedic surgeons perform these knee rinses, it has been suggested that it only has a placebo effect and could potentially increase joint damage by giving patients a false sense of improved joint health.

Artificial joints

As a final resort, artificial joints can be considered. These replacements are for patients that have restricted mobility and are unable to take natural measures to improve joint health.

You can read more in this section on:

  • Arthroscopy
  • Knee joint surgery
  • Hip joint surgery
  • Hip joint surgery and common prosthesis complications

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