Chondroplasty
Smoothing out significant irregularities on the cartilage surface and taking out loose cartilage can also help reduce pain, catching or locking, and swelling. This is often done in conjunction with meniscal or ligament surgery. Because articular cartilage does not re-grow or regenerate, this treatment is only to alleviate symptoms and does not reverse the arthritic process. This is an arthroscopic procedure and recovery is usually swift. Weight bearing is allowed immediately with crutches for support only. Most patients are able to return to full activity in 4-6 weeks.
