Chondroplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair or reshape damaged cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones and provides cushioning and support to the joint.

Chondroplasty is typically used to treat cartilage defects or injuries that have not responded to other treatments, such as physical therapy or medications. The procedure involves using special instruments to remove damaged or frayed cartilage from the knee joint, and to reshape the remaining cartilage to improve the overall function of the joint.

During chondroplasty surgery, the surgeon will make small incisions in the knee and use specialized instruments to remove the damaged cartilage. The surgeon may also use special tools to smooth out any rough or uneven areas of the remaining cartilage, and to promote the growth of new cartilage cells.

After the surgery, the patient will need to follow a rehabilitation program, which may include physical therapy and other treatments to help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee joint. The recovery time for chondroplasty surgery can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of surgery performed, but it typically takes several weeks to several months to fully recover and return to normal activities.