Which term is used for surgical repair of a joint?

Which term is used for surgical repair of a joint?

• A. Arthrodesis
• B. Arthroplasty
• C. Arthroscopy
• D. Synovectomy

Answer: (B)

Arthroplasty is the term for surgical repair or restoration of a joint’s function. It covers procedures that resurfacing, reconstructing, or replacing the joint surfaces to relieve pain and improve movement, such as hip or knee replacements. Arthrodesis, by contrast, fuses the joint so it no longer moves, which is a different goal from joint repair. Arthroscopy involves using a scope to visualize and often treat inside a joint, but it isn’t defined as the repair of the joint itself. Synovectomy is the removal of the synovial membrane, typically to reduce inflammation, not to repair the joint structure.

Arthroplasty is the term for surgical repair or restoration of a joint’s function. It covers procedures that resurfacing, reconstructing, or replacing the joint surfaces to relieve pain and improve movement, such as hip or knee replacements.

Arthrodesis, by contrast, fuses the joint so it no longer moves, which is a different goal from joint repair. Arthroscopy involves using a scope to visualize and often treat inside a joint, but it isn’t defined as the repair of the joint itself. Synovectomy is the removal of the synovial membrane, typically to reduce inflammation, not to repair the joint structure.