Meniscectomy (Meniscus Surgery)

Overview

Meniscectomy or meniscus surgery is a common treatment for a torn or damaged meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. If it is torn it can cause pain, swelling and difficulty moving the knee. In some cases surgery is required to remove the damaged part of the meniscus and restore function to the knee. This procedure is called meniscectomy.

Why Meniscectomy (Meniscus Surgery) is Required?

Meniscectomy is needed when a meniscus tear causes severe pain, swelling or limits knee movement.

If other treatments like rest or physical therapy do not help surgery becomes necessary.

Untreated meniscus tears can lead to further knee damage making surgery crucial.

Key Advantages of Meniscectomy (Meniscus Surgery) Treatment

• Pain Relief: The surgery helps reduce pain caused by a torn meniscus.
• Better Movement: Patients often experience improved knee mobility after surgery.
• Faster Recovery: Compared to full meniscus repairs, meniscectomy usually leads to quicker recovery.
• Prevents Further Damage: Removing damaged tissue helps avoid further knee problems.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Meniscectomy (Meniscus Surgery) Treatment?

• Pre Surgery Tests: Imaging tests like MRIs are done to check the extent of the tear.
• Stop Certain Medications: You may need to pause blood thinners and other medications before surgery.
• Plan for Aftercare: Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

How Meniscectomy (Meniscus Surgery) Treatment is Performed?

• Minimally Invasive: Small incisions are made and a camera (arthroscope) is used to see inside the knee.
• Removal of Damaged Meniscus: The damaged meniscus is removed with special surgical tools.
• Quick Procedure: The surgery usually takes 30-60 minutes.

What You Can Expect Before Procedure, During Procedure, and After Procedure?

1. Before:

You may be asked to fast for a few hours before surgery and stop certain medications.

2. During:

The surgeon will use small incisions and remove the damaged meniscus.

3. After:

You may return home the same day, follow the recovery plan for best results.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site.
• Blood Clots: Rare but possible after surgery.
• Knee Issues: Knee stiffness or instability can sometimes occur.
• Re-injury: The knee might be at risk of further damage.

Results/Outcomes

Most patients feel significant pain relief and improved knee function after surgery.

Full recovery may take a few weeks to months depending on the individual and the severity of the tear.

Faster recovery compared to other types of meniscus surgeries.