Resolved question:
I have a large full thickness cartilage defect at the weightbearing surface of the lateral femoral condyle measuring 12x6 mm., severe chronic appearing patellar chondrosis, intra-articular bodies and a moderate sized Baker's cyst. I am scheduled for arthroscopic surgery in 2 weeks to look at the damage and remove pieces of cartilage. Will I need another surgery after this one to correct the defect?
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Orthopedic Surgeon
Hello,
Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com
Arthroscopy procedure are of two types; diagnostic only and diagnostic & therapeutic both. In your case, the second one ll be done. Usually we do require a repeat surgery after some time to address the cartilage defect (Osteochondral/ cartilage transplantation or cell based).
Rest is dependent on your treating surgeon. So I recommend you to discuss the future possible procedure & plan of action with him.
I hope my opinion will help you.
Get well soon,
Stay happy & healthy,
Thanks
What is the normal recovery timeline for both surgeries and will I still be able to play sports (softball) afterwards? I am a 50 year old female.
Hello,
Greetings from DoctorSpring!!!
Thanks for writing back to us.
For the first surgery, it usually take 4 to 6 weeks for recovery. It is targeted towards reducing pain & improve function.
For the later cartilage repair surgeries, it usually take longer rehabilitation time as cartilage is a slow healing tissue. It also depends upon type of repair procedure done.
I am quite sure that you ll be able to resume your sports activities but you should ask you treating surgeon about your post operative rehabilitation time.