Understanding Meniscus Repair Surgery: Treatment Options and Long-term Benefits

What is Meniscus Repair Surgery?

meniscus repair surgery is a procedure aimed at repairing the damaged meniscus, a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. This surgery is often performed arthroscopically, which means it involves small incisions and the use of a camera to guide the surgeon. This minimally invasive approach results in less tissue damage, quicker recovery times, and less post-operative pain.

1. Arthroscopic meniscus repair: This procedure involves making small incisions around the knee and using a tiny camera (arthroscope) to see inside the joint. Special instruments are then used to sew the torn pieces of the meniscus together. This technique is effective for treating tears that have good blood supply, which aids in healing.

2. meniscectomy: In cases where the meniscus cannot be repaired, a partial or complete meniscectomy may be performed. This involves removing the damaged portion of the meniscus to alleviate pain and restore function. Although removing the meniscus can relieve symptoms, it also reduces the knee’s cushioning, which can lead to arthritis over time.

3. meniscus transplant: For patients with severe meniscus damage or those who have had a meniscectomy, a meniscus transplant may be an option. This involves transplanting a donor meniscus into the patient’s knee. This procedure is less common but can be very effective for younger patients or those with significant knee issues.

How Meniscus Repair Surgery Improves Knee Health

meniscus repair surgery offers several benefits over non-surgical treatments. It can provide more permanent solutions, especially for severe damage, and often leads to better long-term outcomes. By addressing the root cause of meniscus damage, these treatments can provide long-term relief and improve joint function.

At MSK Doctors, we combine cutting-edge surgical treatments with advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our approach is patient-centred, focusing on individual needs and promoting overall musculoskeletal health.

FAQs about Meniscus Repair Surgery

Q1: What is the recovery time for meniscus repair surgery? Recovery time varies but generally ranges from several weeks to a few months. Physical therapy is often required to ensure a successful recovery and to restore full function to the knee.

Q2: Are there any risks associated with meniscus repair surgery? Meniscus repair surgery is generally safe, but potential risks include infection, stiffness, and complications related to the surgery. It’s essential to consult with a qualified specialist to understand the benefits and risks.

Q3: How effective is meniscus repair surgery for knee cartilage repair? Meniscus repair surgery can be highly effective for repairing tears with a good blood supply, providing durable and long-lasting results. The effectiveness depends on the extent of the damage and the patient’s overall health.

Q4: What makes meniscectomy different from meniscus repair? meniscectomy involves removing the damaged portion of the meniscus, while meniscus repair focuses on sewing the torn pieces together to allow them to heal naturally. meniscus repair preserves more of the natural meniscus compared to meniscectomy.

Q5: Can meniscus repair surgery prevent the need for knee replacement surgery? In many cases, meniscus repair surgery can delay or prevent the need for knee replacement surgery by repairing and restoring knee cartilage. However, the effectiveness depends on the extent of cartilage damage.

Q6: How do I know if I’m a candidate for meniscus repair surgery? A thorough evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist is necessary to determine if you are a candidate for meniscus repair surgery. Factors such as the extent of cartilage damage, overall health, and treatment goals will be considered.