Joint degradation is a natural progression of age. How can you find relief from discomfort? There are two different procedures that provide an answer: arthroscopy and arthroplasty.
What Is the Difference?
The biggest difference between these two procedures is that arthroscopy is less invasive. Its purpose is for minor procedures to address:
- damaged cartilage
- torn meniscus
- inflamed tissue
- loose bone fragments
Arthroplasty involves replacing damaged or worn-out cartilage on the surface of the joint. For example, a case of severe arthritis benefits from this procedure. Another condition is avascular necrosis. This occurs when a lack of blood supply causes deterioration in the joint.
Orthopedic physicians determine which procedure is appropriate, based on physical examination and imaging. Arthroscopy is the preferred treatment—if it is “enough” to address the problem. Incisions are smaller and it is an outpatient procedure. Also, recovery is much faster; three to six weeks as opposed to two to three months with arthroplasty.
Might Someone Need Both Procedures?
There is a chance a person might need both procedures in their lifetime. But, arthroscopy almost always precedes arthroplasty. One case where that’s not true is if someone develops excessive scar tissue. Arthroscopy is an effective tool for removing scar tissue that is interfering with joint motion or causing pain.
One thing to note is that neither procedure addresses minor sprains and tears. These minor conditions generally heal on their own with rest and time. Arthroscopy and arthroplasty correct situations that aren’t going to heal otherwise without intervention.
Are There Risks?
All types of surgeries have benefited from scientific advancements. With arthroscopy and arthroplasty, one of the biggest perks involves recovery. Arthroscopy patients return home the same day with a small incision and an ACE bandage. Oftentimes, they can walk on their own as well.
In the past, arthroplasty patients might have had to spend three to five days in the hospital. Then, they’d often go to an inpatient rehab facility to heal. Today’s patients are often able to return home the same day as well.
These same advancements reduce the risk of complications. Arthroplasty carries about a one percent risk of infection, blood clot, or stiffness.
Can You Benefit?
If you’ve been living with pain, stiffness, or lost mobility, one of these two procedures might be a fit. Consult with your primary care provider to explore the next steps. You may very well be on the road to relief.
Listen to a podcast
As we age, joints tend to wear down or even wear out. Two options your doctor might suggest are arthroscopy or arthroplasty. They sound very similar. What is the difference? In this podcast, Dr. William Cook, chief of orthopaedic surgery at UM Upper Chesapeake Health, addresses that very question as well as considerations each patient should address with their doctor. Listen on the UMMS Live Greater podcast site or one of your favorite podcast platforms:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart | Google Podcast | Stitcher | TuneIn
More to Read
- Osteoarthritis: Finding the Best Treatment Option for You
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery for Joint Replacements
- 6 Ways Arthritis Puts Pressure on Your Health
- The Most Common Endurance Sports Injuries and How to Treat Them
Medically reviewed by William P. Cook, MD
