What is meniscus repair surgery?
In some cases, damage to the meniscus will heal over time however for more serious tears, surgery is the recommended option.
If the tear is small, it may be able to be repaired through a type of keyhole (also known as arthroscopy) surgery called a partial meniscectomy. This procedure aims to trim loose cartilage for a smoother surface, which should increase mobility and reduce pain.
In more complicated cases, a full meniscal repair may be recommended instead. Here, the surgeon will reattach loose cartilage using medical stitches. These will remain in the knee after surgery in order to hold the cartilage in place. This type of surgery is also undertaken as keyhole surgery.
Ready to book now? Get in touch to discuss your needs and decide on the best course of treatment for you.
Ready to book now? Get in touch to discuss your needs and decide on the best course of treatment for you.
How to prepare for meniscus repair surgery
Prior to your procedure, your consultant will undertake pre-operative assessment to make sure you’re ready for surgery. They may ask you about any anaesthetics you’ve had previously, and whether you experienced any side effects. You will also receive information on what to eat and drink on the day of the surgery, medicines management, recovery and rehabilitation. Anaesthetics are usually safer with an empty stomach, so you’ll normally be asked not to eat anything several hours before your operation.
What happens during meniscus repair surgery?
A meniscectomy is usually performed using arthroscopy (keyhole surgery), under a general or a local anaesthetic. Your orthopaedic surgeon will first make small incisions in your knee, and make an assessment of the damaged area using specialist tools and a camera that allows them to see within the joint. Once the assessment is completed, the surgeon will then clean the area and make repairs to any tears. The wounds will be closed using either stitches, or also staples or steristrips. After the surgery, you’ll then be transferred to the recovery area.
How to recover from meniscus repair surgery
Your recovery time will vary depending on the nature of your procedure and how much repair was required. Most people who work in a desk-based job may feel able to return to work after a week, however for more physical employment you may need up to two weeks of rest.
Your consultant may request that you do not undertake physically demanding activities (including sport) for several months in order to give your knee time to heal.
Complications and risks
Meniscal repair is considered a very safe procedure, but like all surgery there is a risk of complications.
You may experience short-term symptoms such as bruising and swelling, and also stiffness and discomfort. These normally improve fairly quickly over the days after the procedure.
Serious complications are far less common, and less than 1 in 100 people will experience issues such as:
- A blood clot in a limb, also known as deep vein thrombosis
- Infection within the joint, also known as septic arthritis
- Bleeding inside the joint
- Accidental nerve damage
Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss take the time to discuss these risks with you prior to the surgery, and there will be the opportunity to ask further questions if needed.