Overview

When the meniscus, a flexible cartilage in the knee joint, gets torn or injured, it becomes necessary for meniscus repair. Doctors recommend this procedure to younger individuals with stable knee joints, specific tear patterns likely to heal, and tears situated on the meniscus's outer edge. Each knee has two menisci, and any tears or damage to them can manifest as knee pain, resulting in challenges with jogging, walking, climbing stairs, or engaging in weightlifting activities.

When to Go For Meniscus Surgery?

Meniscus repair surgery becomes necessary when the knee's meniscus is damaged due to internal health conditions or external factors. The surgery entails removing or repairing the torn or injured portion of the meniscus, alleviating discomfort and pain. This surgery aims to restore integrity and functionality by reattaching or suturing the torn edges. This aids in the rapid healing and preservation of the meniscus, which plays a crucial role in knee stability and cushioning. Arthroscopic techniques, small incisions, miniature cameras, and specialised instruments are commonly employed during surgery.

Step-By-Step Meniscus Surgery Procedure

Meniscus Surgery is a safe and minimally invasive surgery. Here is the step-by-step procedure followed during the surgery. The specific details of the procedure may vary depending on the patient, surgeon, and the extent of the meniscus tear.

- Anaesthesia- The patient is sedated to ensure comfort and pain management during the surgery. Depending on the surgeon’s preference and individual case, the type of anaesthesia administered could be regional, local, or general.
- Incisions- In this surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions around the knee. For this purpose, an arthroscopic approach is used. Arthroscopy entails inserting a thin tube with a camera (arthroscope) through one incision to see the inside of the knee joint.
- Evaluation- The surgeon examines the knee joint once the camera is in place. An arthroscope is used to see the extent of meniscus injury. It helps them to assess the location, size, and type of meniscus tear.
- Repair or removal- Based on the tear's characteristics, the surgeon may decide to remove or repair the damaged meniscus portion. In case of repair, the ton edges are sutured together, while excising or trimming the torn portion is done in removal.
- Tissue preservation- The surgeon aims to preserve the meniscus as much as possible to maintain its integrity and function.
- Closure- After removal or repair work, surgical staples or sutures are used to close the incision.
- Recovery- The patient is closely monitored until he is completely recovered. Rehabilitation and physical exercises expedite recovery, improve overall joint function, increase flexibility, and restore knee strength.

Complications of Meniscus Repair Surgery

Complications associated with meniscus repair surgery are relatively rare but can occur. Some potential complications include:

- Arthritis Post-Surgery- Meniscus or knee surgery increases the chances of the individual getting arthritis. It happens due to the low regeneration capacity of the cartilage tissues after the surgery. Hence, the individual might have arthritis, making walking or jogging difficult.
- Blood Clot- The pooling of blood in the veins after surgery is one of the primary reasons for a blood clot. It can be fatal if the situation worsens and is not treated correctly. The condition can also be faced after knee surgery. The sedentary lifestyle of the operated individual is also one of the reasons for blood clots in the veins after surgery.
- Damaged Meniscus-Previous meniscus surgery may increase the likelihood of future meniscus tears or injuries, particularly in the repaired meniscus. Factors such as age and participation in contact sports can further contribute to re-tear risks.
- Spontaneous Osteonecrosis- Spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee (SONK) can occur as a complication of knee arthroscopy. It involves a lack of blood supply to the bone, causing significant and persistent pain, typically along the inner side of the knee. Treatment may involve crutches, braces, medications, and, in severe cases, partial or full knee replacement.
- Difficulty Walking- Knee pain before or after surgery can lead to limping or abnormal gait patterns to protect the joint. Rehabilitation, including physical therapy, is essential to correct gait issues and improve knee function, strength, stability, and mobility.
- Infection- Infection is another risk factor after surgery. The germs can easily enter an individual through the incision made. The germs may multiply after they enter the operated individual, damaging the cartilage or the new part attached through the surgical process. If the condition is not treated correctly, the individual might need another surgery to eliminate the issue.
- Knee Stiffness- An individual who recently operated on may feel knee stiffness after the surgery. It happens due to the liquid in the knee, which may need a few weeks to be absorbed by the body. The individual might not be able to move the knee freely.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Ortho doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Meniscus tear surgery is often done for people involved in sports and physical activities. It helps to lower the damage caused due to a tear or damage in the meniscus. The surgery allows the patient to resume routine life and play sports freely.

FAQs

Q. What is a meniscus repair surgery? A. The surgical process involves removing the damaged cartilage or stitching up the torn cartilage leading to knee pain or lock.

Q. What are the complications of meniscus surgery? A. Swelling, infection, blood clots, difficulty in walking, knee stiffness, or arthritis are possible complications that can be faced after surgery.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/torn-meniscus-injury-all-you-need-to-know/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21508-meniscus-surgery