Overview

The meniscus refers to the crescent-shaped cartilage pads located within the knee joint. There are two menisci in each knee, the medial meniscus on the inner side and the lateral meniscus on the outer side. The menisci serve as shock absorbers, cushioning the knee joint, helping distribute weight, and facilitating smooth movement between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shinbone). They also contribute to joint stability and provide lubrication for the knee joint. Injuries to the meniscus, such as tears, can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

What is meniscus repair?

Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to remove the torn or damaged meniscus and lower the knee pain immediately. The surgery aims to restore the function and stability of the meniscus, allowing it to continue cushioning the knee and facilitating smooth movement. During the procedure, the torn edges of the meniscus are sutured together, promoting healing and potentially preserving the natural structure of the meniscus. Meniscus repair is often preferred over meniscectomy (partial or complete removal of the meniscus) to maintain long-term joint health and reduce the risk of future complications.

Who needs meniscus surgery?

Meniscus surgery, such as meniscus repair or meniscectomy, may be recommended for individuals with a torn meniscus in the knee and experience persistent symptoms that affect their daily activities and quality of life.

- Sportsperson- People involved in sports or with an active lifestyle often face knee or similar injuries. These injuries may result in damage to cartilage or knee joints. Doctors suggest non-surgical methods initially to repair the meniscus. Surgery is the last option when other methods cannot cure the knee pain.
- Ageing- Wear and tear of cartilage due to ageing is also one of the major causes of the surgery. With passing age, an individual's cartilage may get damaged or be unable to function properly. Surgery is a practical choice in such situations.
- Arthritis patients- Different forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis, may also damage the knee cartilage. Often, non-surgical treatment options cannot lower the pain or inflammation caused to joints due to arthritis. Surgery is a professional and highly successful option under such circumstances.

What are the advantages of meniscus repair?

Mentioned below are some of the advantageous options of the arthroscopic surgical process:

- Lowers Pain- Knee injury can be one of the most painful situations for an individual. The pain occurs due to a tear or damaged cartilage. The surgical procedure helps repair the knee's damaged part and lower the pain. Hence, a patient can resume routine functions in a short time.
- Prevents Future Knee Issues- A proper surgical process helps remove the knee issue immediately and ensures to prevent it. The surgery helps to lower the redevelopment of arthritis.

Pre-Surgery Guidelines

If surgery becomes the last option for a patient to get rid of the knee pain, then certain guidelines are followed before the procedure mentioned below are a few of them:

- If the doctor decides to perform the surgery, a few tests, such as an x-ray, ECG, and blood tests, may be performed before the surgery to check the patient's vital status.
- A doctor prescribes certain medications to use after the surgery to lower pain.
- A doctor may also suggest avoiding eating or drinking a few hours before the surgery for a seamless procedure.

The procedure of Meniscus Repair

A patient is given anaesthesia to numb the body to avoid pain and discomfort during the surgery. The area over the knee is cleaned before making a precise incision. A sterile fluid is passed through the incision to clear the surgical site of waste and debris. Then an arthroscope is inserted to have a clear view of the surgical site. The surgery is performed by inserting small instruments through the incision. The damaged cartilage is then repaired or removed. The surgery is wrapped up with the help of stitches or by bandaging the surgical incision.

Complications of Knee Meniscus Surgery

Mentioned below are the complications that a patient can face during knee surgery:

Arthritis in Future
Blood Clots
Blood pooling in the surgical area
Infection
Stiffness in the joint
Injured nerves around the surgical area

Post-Surgery Care Guidelines

Mentioned below are care guidelines that help a patient to recover faster:

- Medications- A patient might feel pain after surgery. A doctor may recommend NSAIDs or other painkillers to lower the pain. Hence, a patient feels calm and can perform routine functions.
- Light Activity- Mild activity and easy physical activities help to avoid lethargy after the surgery. It keeps the movement of the operated knee smooth and does not let the knee feel blocked or jammed. The activity to be performed should be done under the doctor's consultation.
- Icing- A patient may experience swelling after the surgery. The patient might feel immense pain and be unable to move the knee. Icing the operated area helps to lower the swelling and also helps the patient to feel relaxed.

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 repair is the surgical method to remove damaged or torn meniscus. The surgery helps to lower the prolonged knee pain immediately. Surgery is a highly-opted option after the failure of all non-surgical methods. Following proper post-surgery guidelines helps in quick recovery.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/torn-meniscus-injury-all-you-need-to-know/
- https://www.stevendlevinmd.com/forms/post-op-meniscus-repair.pdf
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21508-meniscus-surgery