Introduction
Articular cartilage is a tissue that coats the ends of many bones in your body. It acts as a cushion during movement and creates a smooth surface for bones in a joint to slide over each other. In contrast, the meniscal cartilages in the knee serve different roles, functioning primarily as stabilizers and shock absorbers. Injury or specific medical conditions can lead to tears in the meniscal cartilage.
Tears in the cartilage can result in symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, locking sensations, feelings of instability, and diminished functionality. Arthroscopic surgery is a common method for addressing cartilage tears, offering relatively low pain levels and short recovery times.
Anatomy
Cartilage is the tissue that coats the ends of numerous bones. It provides a slick surface for bones within a joint to move smoothly during activity. Additionally, it serves as a shock absorber, cushioning impacts. The menisci are specialized cartilage structures located in the knee, which enhance stability and act as shock absorbers.
Causes
The cartilage in the knee and shoulder is particularly susceptible to tears, especially from injuries sustained during sports. Conditions like arthritis can lead to the degeneration of cartilage. Chondromalacia refers to the softening and deterioration of cartilage. Excess weight can place additional strain on joints, potentially resulting in cartilage tears, especially in the knees. Misalignments in the knee can also cause uneven pressure, contributing to the risk of cartilage tears.
Symptoms
A tear in the cartilage typically leads to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected joint. You may experience increased pain with movement, and your joint might feel like it catches during motion. The functionality of the joint may be compromised. A fragment of torn cartilage may move improperly within the joint, causing it to "give out," particularly noticeable in the knee.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a cartilage tear, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and analyze medical imaging. Be sure to inform your doctor about your symptoms, activities, and any incidents that may have led to the injury. A comprehensive examination of the affected joint will be conducted.
Your doctor will likely order X-rays to assess the condition of your bones and identify any arthritis. An MRI scan may also be requested, as it provides a detailed view of the joint, particularly the cartilage and ligaments.
Treatment
Since cartilage has a limited blood supply, it cannot heal itself effectively. As a result, tears can lead to further deterioration over time, and most cartilage tears necessitate surgical intervention for treatment.
Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is a prevalent approach for treating meniscal cartilage tears. This technique enables surgeons to visualize, diagnose, and address issues within a joint. During arthroscopy, a small device called an arthroscope and narrow surgical instruments are inserted through tiny incisions. The arthroscope features a lens and a lighting system that permits the surgeon to see inside the joint. It is connected to a miniature camera that allows the surgeon to view enlarged images on a screen or capture photos and video.
Recovery
Arthroscopy is less invasive compared to traditional open surgeries, resulting in a lower risk of infection, minimal bleeding, reduced pain, and quicker recovery times. Your doctor will inform you of what to expect during the recovery process.
