Joint Preservation Surgery

Joint Preservation Surgery is our commitment to delaying or even preventing the need for a total joint replacement. It’s about proactive intervention, using advanced techniques to repair damage, restore biology, and correct underlying mechanics before arthritis takes over. This is especially crucial for younger patients who have many active years ahead.

Why Preserve?

Your natural joint offers unmatched sensory feedback, stability, and longevity. Our aim is to:

• Prevent Progression: Stop the “wear and tear” cycle before it becomes irreversible.

• Relieve Pain: Address the root cause of discomfort without replacing the entire joint.

• Maintain Activity: Allow you to continue participating in sports and daily activities.

Key Joint Preservation Procedures:

1. Arthroscopic Debridement & Chondroplasty (Cleaning & Smoothing)

• What it is: For early-stage cartilage damage or minor tears, we use arthroscopy to smooth rough cartilage surfaces and remove loose fragments (debris) that can cause pain, catching, and locking.

• Goal: To reduce friction, relieve symptoms, and prevent further cartilage breakdown.

  

2. Microfracture / Nano-fracture (Stimulating New Cartilage)

• What it is: For isolated, full-thickness cartilage defects (where the cartilage is completely worn down to the bone). Tiny holes are drilled into the exposed bone, creating a pathway for bone marrow stem cells to flow out. These cells then form a “super clot” that develops into fibrocartilage, a repair tissue.

• Goal: To fill the defect with new tissue, providing a smoother surface and delaying arthritis.

  

3. Core Decompression with/without Biologics (For Avascular Necrosis – AVN)

• What it is: For early-stage Avascular Necrosis (AVN) in the hip or knee. Dr. Shah drills small tunnels into the affected bone to relieve pressure, improve blood flow, and provide channels for new blood vessels. This is often augmented with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC), rich in growth factors and stem cells, to enhance healing and bone regeneration.

• Goal: To prevent the collapse of the bone, stop AVN progression, and save the natural joint.