Knee Care
Dr. Henry Backe is an integral part of the Orthopaedic Specialty
Group, P. C. team for over 25 years. Dr. Backe’s exceptional surgical skills are complemented by a personable style and dedication to the highest quality patient outcomes and satisfaction. He is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon and is fellowship trained in the area of hand and wrist and joint replacement.
Cartilage Injuries
Knee Specialist In The Greater Fairfield & Shelton Areas
Dr. Henry Backe treats knee conditions at his offices in Fairfield and Shelton, Connecticut. Dr. Backe of Orthopaedic Specialty Group P. C. , is a specialty trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee conditions and injuries. As a leader in Orthopaedics, Dr. Backe offers innovative and less-invasive treatment options and state-of-the-art technologies that benefit his patients in many ways.
FAQs on Cartilage Injuries
Cartilage Injuries
Hyaline Cartilage
The main component of the joint surface is a special tissue called hyaline cartilage.When it is damaged, the joint surface may no longer be smooth. Moving bones along a tough, damaged joint surface is difficult and causes pain. Cartilage injuries can also lead to arthritis in the joint.
The goal of cartilage restoration procedures is to stimulate new hyaline cartilage growth.
Identifying Cartilage Damage
In many cases, patients who have joint injuries, such as meniscal or ligament tears, will also have cartilage damage. This damage may be hard to diagnose because hyaline cartilage does not contain calcium and cannot be seen on an X-ray.
If other injuries exist with cartilage damage, Dr. Backe will address all problems during surgery.
Surgical Treatment
Many procedures to restore articular cartilage are done arthroscopically. During arthroscopy, Dr. Backe makes three small, puncture incisions around your joint using an arthroscope.
Some procedures require the surgeon to have more direct access to the affected area. Longer, open incisions are required. Sometimes it is necessary to address other problems in the joint, such as meniscal or ligament tears, when cartilage surgery is done.
In general, recovery from an arthroscopic procedure is quicker and less painful than a traditional, open surgery. Dr. Backe will discuss the options with you to determine what kind of procedure is right for you.
