Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can both affect the knee joint. While these knee conditions are most commonly seen in older patients, individuals of any age can develop them. In the case of osteoarthritis, the bones and cartilage in the knee are worn down over time, causing gradually worsening pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, involves swelling of the membrane covering the knee joint, thus leading to chronic pain and stiffness. Correct diagnosis is the first step in alleviating the symptoms of either type of knee arthritis. Arthroscopic knee surgery for arthritis is an effective technique used by a growing number of orthopedic surgeons. This method can accurately identify and treat cartilage loss in the knee caused by either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery for Arthritis
This advanced procedure involves the surgeon making a series of small incisions and then inserting a tiny instrument called an arthroscope into the knee joint. Attached to the arthroscope is a microscopic camera that delivers high-resolution images of the inside of the joint to the surgeon. By giving the surgeon a clear view of the issues that need to be addressed, arthroscopic knee surgery for arthritis optimizes the process of diagnosing and treating common disorders of the knee joint, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
In addition to showing cartilage loss caused by knee arthritis, arthroscopy can also reveal other problems in the knee joint, including:
- – Inflammation in the lining of the knee (such as synovitis)
- – Chondromalacia (injury or wearing down of cartilage cushion)
- – Fragmented or loose cartilage or bone
- – Tears in the meniscus
- – Tears in the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL/PCL)
- – Abnormally aligned or unstable patella (kneecap)
Aside from aiding in correct diagnosis, arthroscopic knee surgery for arthritis also offers additional benefits for many patients. As compared to other surgical treatment options, this minimally invasive knee surgery tends to have a much shorter recovery time. This is because it does not require large incisions to be made.
Come to Dr. Soffer for Expert, Individualized Knee Care
Are you suffering from persistent knee pain and discomfort? Dr. Stephen Soffer is a highly qualified and experienced orthopedic surgeon who can help you get rid of your symptoms and get back to your normal activities. Dr. Soffer offers the latest and greatest treatments for knee conditions. These include non-surgical methods, knee replacement surgery and arthroscopic knee surgery for arthritis. He also holds certification in the treatment of cartilage injuries in the knee through articular cartilage implantation.
If you are ready to seek care for your knee injury or condition, call 610-375-4949 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Soffer. We look forward to helping you return to an active lifestyle with no more chronic knee pain.
