Chondrolysis

Edited By: Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D.
Last updated Thursday, September 04, 2008

Chondrolysis

Chondrolysis is a severe type of shoulder arthritis in which the cartilage of the joint is abruptly lost. It has been noted to follow shoulder arthroscopy.

While the cause is not known, chondrolysis may be associated with the use radiofrequency heat to shrink the shoulder capsule and the use of pain pump catheters placed in the joint after surgery for post-operative administration of local anesthetic, such as Marcaine (bupivacaine) or Xylocaine (lidocaine) and epinephrine.

Treatment of shoulder chondrolysis may include exercises , a ream and run procedure, or a total shoulder.

Humeral head with chondrolysis	Glenoid with chondrolysis

Surgery for Chondrolysis at the University of Washington

Disclaimer

This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

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