Meniscus Tears and Surgical Repair

Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to fix a torn meniscus, a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the bones of the knee joint.

The meniscus can be torn by a sudden twisting motion of the knee, such as might occur during a sports injury. It can also be torn by overuse.

If the meniscus is torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. It can also lead to osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that occurs when the cartilage in the joint breaks down.

Meniscus repair is a treatment option for people who have a torn meniscus that does not respond to other treatments, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy, or arthroscopy.

During meniscus repair, we use stitches to sew the torn meniscus back together. We may also use screws or other anchors to hold the meniscus in place.

Meniscus repair is a major surgery and there are risks associated with it, such as infection, bleeding, and stiffness. However, the success rate of meniscus repair is high. Most people who have the surgery experience relief from pain and improved function in their knee.

If you are considering meniscus repair, talk to us about the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Here are some things to expect after meniscus repair surgery:

• You will likely have a brace on your leg for 6 weeks after surgery.

• You will need to rest your knee and avoid strenuous activity.

• You will need to participate in physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength in your knee.

• It may take several months for your knee to fully heal.

The success rate of meniscus repair surgery is high. Most people who have the surgery experience relief from pain and improved function in their knee. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, and stiffness.

If you are considering meniscus repair surgery, talk to us about the risks and benefits of the procedure.