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Cartilage Restoration

James M. Lee, Jr., MD -  - Orthopedic Surgeon

James M. Lee, Jr., MD

Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Specialist located in West Orange, NJ & Bayonne, NJ

If you have painful, damaged, or worn-down cartilage, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist James M. Lee, Jr., MD, provides solutions in West Orange, New Jersey, and Bayonne, New Jersey. He offers cartilage restoration to improve musculoskeletal function and reduce ongoing discomfort. Call the nearest office or schedule an evaluation online today.

Cartilage Restoration Q & A

What is cartilage restoration?

Cartilage restoration with Dr. Lee includes highly effective treatments that build up and strengthen cartilage — the smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones to reduce joint friction during movement. Due to injuries or aging, cartilage can become damaged or wear down.

Cartilage restoration is a treatment that restores cartilage, reduces pain, and improves mobility. See Dr. Lee at the first sign of a problem.

Why might I need cartilage restoration?

Symptoms associated with cartilage damage that may indicate the need for cartilage restoration include:

  • Stiffness
  • Joint pain
  • Inflammation
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Reduced range of motion

You might notice these or other symptoms in your hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists, ankles, or other joints. If a piece of cartilage breaks off, it can cause bruising in the affected tissues.

Is cartilage restoration right for me?

To determine if you’re a candidate for cartilage restoration, Dr. Lee discusses your symptoms, medical history, and treatment preferences. He checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam, and may order an MRI or arthroscopy. Arthroscopy uses a tiny tube with a camera to get an in-depth view of your cartilage and make repairs when needed. 

The best treatment for you depends on the type and severity of the cartilage damage, as well as your lifestyle and end goal. Dr. Lee tailors each treatment to your needs.

What happens during cartilage restoration?

Dr. Lee uses various methods to achieve cartilage restoration. Conservative treatments include medications, injections, and specialized exercises. 

Surgery is also an option, including debridement to smooth or remove damaged tissues, making microfractures in the bone to trigger new cartilage generation, or transferring healthy cartilage to the site of damaged or worn-down cartilage. 

Dr. Lee may remove cartilage, take it to a lab to grow additional cartilage cells, and implant the cartilage back into its original site. 

What should I expect after my treatment?

Take it easy after surgery and undergo physical therapy if Dr. Lee recommends it. He follows up with you to ensure desirable, long-lasting, and pain-free results.

To learn more about cartilage restoration with James M. Lee, Jr., MD, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What we offer

Services and Treatments Available