Meniscal tears
and treatments
Meniscal tears can cause significant pain and prevent normal knee movement.
Meniscal Tears and Treatment: Repairing the Damage
The meniscus is a specialised piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia). Meniscal tears are a common injury that can occur when the knee is twisted or bent in an awkward position. If you’ve experienced a meniscal tear, you may be a candidate for meniscal surgery to can help restore the function of your knee and reduce your pain.
What are the Symptoms of a Meniscal Tear?
Symptoms of a meniscal tear can vary depending on the severity and location of the tear, but may include:
- Pain, particularly when bearing weight on the affected knee.
- Swelling and stiffness in the knee joint.
- Locking or catching of the knee joint during movement.
- Limited range of motion.
- A popping or clicking sound when moving the knee.
What is Meniscal Repair Surgery?
Meniscal repair surgery is a minimally invasive (keyhole) procedure that aims to restore the function of the damaged meniscus. During the surgery, the torn edges of the meniscus are brought back together and secured with sutures or other devices, allowing the meniscus to heal and re-establish its function as a shock absorber in the knee joint.
Benefits of Meniscal Repair Surgery
Meniscal repair surgery offers several potential benefits compared to meniscectomy (removal of the damaged meniscus), including:
- Preservation of healthy meniscal tissue, which can help reduce the risk of future knee problems and arthritis.
- Improved knee stability and function, allowing you to return to your normal activities.
- Reduced risk of future knee injuries.
Recovery from Meniscal Repair Surgery
Meniscal repair surgery is usually performed as a Day-Case procedure.
You will be encouraged to walk as normally and possible immediately after the surgery, and our physiotherapy team will show you how to do this and will help you to regain the strength in your knee. Meniscal repairs usually need to be protected while they heal. We do this with a brace that limits the amount you can bend your knee for the first 6 weeks.
Around 90-95% of meniscal tears heal successfully with the correct treatment. You can expect to return to sport after 2-3 months.
What happens if the Meniscal Tear cannot be repaired?
Meniscal repair isn’t the right option for everyone. Some meniscal tears are not repairable, and attempting to do so can lead to further problems as the repair sutures fail and cause irritation or even further damage within the knee.
In these cases, removal of the torn portion of the meniscus (Partial Meniscectomy) is the preferred treatment, as this relieves the symptoms caused by the torn portion moving within the knee and causing irritation.
If you’re experiencing knee pain or other symptoms of a meniscal tear, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Contact us today to book a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.
