Myths and Realities About Joint Preserving Surgeries

Myths and Realities About Joint Preserving Surgeries

Joint preserving surgeries are vital interventions aimed at maintaining joint function in orthopedics. However, many myths surrounding these surgeries exist. This article thoroughly addresses the most common misunderstandings and scientific facts related to joint preserving surgeries.

Joint preserving surgeries are modern orthopedic surgical approaches aimed at protecting joint function and improving patients’ quality of life, especially in weight-bearing joints such as the knee and hip. With the advancement of arthroscopic techniques in recent years, the application of these surgeries has expanded, and their outcomes have become more successful. However, some misunderstandings and myths about joint preserving surgeries are widespread in the community. This article will examine these myths and evidence-based facts in detail.

Definition and Importance of Joint Preserving Surgeries

Joint preserving surgeries are surgical interventions performed to preserve joint surfaces as much as possible, maintaining the joint's natural anatomical and functional integrity. Procedures such as meniscus repair, cartilage transplantation, and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction fall under this category. The goal is to prevent the development of osteoarthritis and reduce joint function loss through surgery.

Myth 1: Joint Preserving Surgeries Always Guarantee Long-Term Success

It is incorrect to assume that joint preserving surgeries consistently result in excellent long-term outcomes. For instance, in surgeries related to meniscus repair or cartilage regeneration, factors such as patient age, injury type, additional joint damage, and the rehabilitation process are key determinants of success. While some patients achieve the desired success, others may develop osteoarthritis at an early stage despite treatment. Therefore, the effectiveness of surgery should be evaluated individually.

Myth 2: Joint Preserving Surgery Only Consists of Arthroscopic Procedures

Although joint preserving surgeries are mostly performed arthroscopically, they are not limited to these techniques alone. In certain cases, open surgical interventions are necessary. For example, in pathologies like femoroacetabular impingement of the hip joint or gluteus medius tears, open or combined approaches may be applied. Hence, the choice of surgical method depends on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s experience.

Myth 3: Pain Completely Disappears After Joint Preserving Surgery

While surgical intervention usually reduces pain complaints, complete pain relief cannot be guaranteed. Factors such as the degree of cartilage damage, presence of chronic inflammation, and the patient’s overall condition can contribute to persistent pain. Moreover, early postoperative pain and stiffness may occur; these typically decrease over time with appropriate rehabilitation but may not entirely resolve.

Myth 4: Every Meniscus Tear Can and Should Be Repaired

Meniscus tears are a fundamental treatment area of joint preserving surgery. However, not every meniscus tear is suitable for repair. Factors such as the tear’s location, type, size, and the blood supply to the meniscus affect the repair decision. For instance, in regions with inadequate vascularization of the meniscus tissue, repair success is low. In these cases, symptomatic relief may be achieved by removing the damaged portion.

Myth 5: Joint Preserving Surgeries Can Be Performed at Any Age

Age is an important factor in joint preserving surgeries. These surgeries tend to have higher success rates in young and active individuals. In older patients, due to cartilage wear and degenerative changes in the joint, treatment outcomes may be limited. Thus, surgical method selection in elderly patients should be more cautious, and sometimes prosthetic surgery might be preferred.

Facts About Joint Preserving Surgeries

Advancement in Surgical Techniques Has Increased Success

The success rates of joint preserving surgeries have improved with advanced arthroscopic techniques and biotechnological methods. For example, anatomically precise and biomechanically reinforced grafts used in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction provide good joint stability in the long term.

Early Intervention is Critically Important

The success of joint preserving surgeries depends on early and accurate diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention slows the progression of cartilage and soft tissue damage within the joint. Therefore, prompt evaluation and treatment following sports injuries are crucial.

Rehabilitation Determines Success

Appropriate postoperative rehabilitation is essential for maintaining surgical success. Physical therapy programs help increase joint range of motion, restore muscle strength, and reduce pain. The patient’s motivation and compliance are extremely important.

Patient Selection is Key in Joint Preserving Surgeries

Factors such as patient age, activity level, the extent of joint damage, and concurrent diseases must be considered in surgical decision-making. Proper patient selection can guarantee the success of surgery.

The Future of Joint Preserving Surgeries

Developments in cell therapies and tissue engineering will introduce innovations that enhance the effectiveness of joint preserving surgeries. The use of biomaterial supports in cartilage regeneration and meniscus repair is increasing in clinical practice.