Osteoarthritis

Hello create1,

Thank you for asking us for information regarding the long term effects of the suggested microscopic procedure.

Not being an orthopedic surgeon or knowing what specific procedure has been recommended, I cannot provide you with that information.

Please speak with your physician before making a decision. Your surgeon should have discussed both procedures with you, including the benefits, risk factors, length of recovery and any long term effects- good or bad.

The suggested microscopic procedure could be arthroscopy, which uses a small telescope called an arthroscope and other small instruments.

The surgery is performed through small incisions. The surgeon uses the arthroscope to see into the joint space. Once there, the surgeon can remove damaged cartilage or loose particles, clean the bone surface, and repair other types of tissue if those damages are discovered.

The procedure is often used on younger patients, ages 55 and younger, in order to delay more serious surgery.

Regards,
Maryann