Meniscus Repair

What is meniscus?

The Meniscus is a circular band on the top of the shinbone which functions as a soothing surface for the joint. Meniscus makes the knee stable and helps it to move smoothly. The Meniscus also serves as a shock absorber since it divides the forces between the bones evenly.

There are two menisci in the knee. A medial meniscus, also known as the inner meniscus and the lateral meniscus known as the outer meniscus.

When meniscus repair is necessary?

The Meniscus is usually damaged in sports when the knee is twisted while the knee joint is bent or when you stop abruptly whilst running. It happens suddenly and after about 24 hours there is the onset of extreme pain, swelling and stiffness which makes it impossible to extend the leg.

However, a meniscus tear may also develop gradually over a period of time because cartilage begins to lose its elasticity and resiliency. This is more common among the older patients who have fragile cartilage. For the elderly, even a seemingly minor slip or fall may tear the meniscus severely. The injury may also happen when the knees are subjected to heavy pressure while kneeling or squatting.

The size and the extent of meniscus injury may vary broadly. It can be either torn around the edges, ripped in half or may only have threads of it remaining.

Torn meniscus repair surgery

A torn meniscus is repaired arthroscopically as such surgery has a very high success rate and fewer risks of complications. During arthroscopic surgery, minute instruments and a small camera (arthroscope) are inserted in the knee joint and a surgeon repairs the tissue. The surgery is performed either under general or local anaesthesia.

Rehabilitation after meniscus repair

Usually a patient wears a knee brace after the surgery so as to lessen swelling, pain and keep the leg straight. Patients are advised to limit motion for 4 weeks and afterwards follow the physical therapy plan prescribed by your doctor so as to achieve successful healing.