What wear and tear injuries are treated by knee arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. In the case of the knee, arthroscopy can be used to treat various wear and tear injuries, such as:

Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that helps cushion the knee joint. Meniscus tears can occur due to sudden twisting or pivoting movements or gradual wear and tear. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to repair or remove the damaged meniscus.

Articular cartilage damage: Articular cartilage is the smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones. It can become damaged due to wear and tear, injury, or certain medical conditions. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to smooth out rough cartilage surfaces, remove loose cartilage fragments, or transplant healthy cartilage to the damaged area.

Osteoarthritis (OA): OA is a degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of cartilage in the knee. While not a cure for OA, arthroscopic surgery can be used to remove damaged cartilage, smooth out rough joint surfaces, and improve joint mobility.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to remove inflamed tissue, improve joint mobility, and reduce pain in RA patients.

Ligament injuries: The knee is supported by several ligaments that connect the bones and provide stability. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to repair torn ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).

It's important to note that not all wear and tear injuries of the knee can be treated with arthroscopic surgery. The specific treatment approach depends on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the individual's overall health and functional needs.