Depending on the severity of the disease various options are available.

1. Arthroscopic surgery

2. Re- alignment of joints - osteotomy

3. Joint Replacement

Arthroscopic Surgery

This procedure is carried out by inserting an arthroscope or small telescope into the joint and assessing the joint surfaces. Using fine instruments it is possible to trim torn cartilage, remove loose bodies and smooth rough surfaces. In people under 55 years of age arthroscopic surgery may help to delay more invasive surgery such as joint replacement.

Re-Alignment

In arthritic joints wearing can occur on one side of the joint more than the other resulting in deformity and malalignment. Operations such as a correction osteotomy can overcome this malalignment and restore weight bearing through the relatively well preserved part of the joint and bring about pain relief for some time. This is only performed on a joint that has not already become stiff.

Joint Replacement

Joint replacement is a successful operation providing relief for joint pain and enabling patients to carry out activities of daily living. During the operation the surgeon removes the worn surfaces of the joint and replaces them with an artificial surface. Various materials can be used for these components inclucding metal or plastic, ceramic and metal on metal bearing surfaces. The prosthesis can be cemented in, which penetrates into the bone providing fixation of the prosthesis to the bone. Alternatively it can be done with uncemented components with roughened surfaces onto which the bone adheres. There is usually noticable decreases to arthritic pain within a couple of weeks following surgery, with long term outcome showing a 80-85% lifespan for a prosthesis before it needs to be replaced.