treatment

Meniscal repair is a surgical intervention aimed at repairing a torn meniscus, a wedge-shaped cartilage in the knee joint that serves as a shock absorber and provides stability. Meniscal tears can occur due to sudden twisting movements, direct trauma, or degenerative changes associated with aging or repetitive stress. Meniscal repair is typically recommended for younger patients with a healthy meniscus tissue and specific tear patterns that are amenable to repair.

What to Expect: Patients considering meniscal repair surgery can expect the following process:

1. Preoperative Evaluation: Before surgery, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including physical examination, imaging studies (such as MRI), and a discussion of medical history and symptoms. The orthopedic surgeon assesses the extent of meniscal injury, evaluates associated knee damage, and discusses treatment options, including the risks and benefits of surgery.
2. Surgical Procedure: Meniscal repair surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (nerve block). The surgeon makes small incisions around the knee to access the torn meniscus. Depending on the tear pattern and location, the torn edges of the meniscus are sutured together using specialized instruments or anchored with implants (such as screws, tacks, or sutures). The goal is to approximate the torn edges and create an environment conducive to healing.
3. Postoperative Rehabilitation: Following surgery, patients undergo a structured rehabilitation program supervised by a physical therapist. The goals of rehabilitation are to reduce pain and swelling, restore range of motion, strengthen muscles around the knee, and improve knee stability and function. Rehabilitation typically includes exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and proprioception (joint position sense). Patients may use crutches and wear a knee brace during the early stages of recovery to protect the knee and promote healing.
4. Full recovery from meniscal repair surgery can take several months, with a gradual return to sports and activities. Patients must adhere to their rehabilitation program, follow their surgeon's postoperative instructions, and avoid high-impact activities or sports until cleared by their healthcare provider.

What to Consider:Meniscal repair surgery involves several important considerations:

• Risks: Potential risks and complications of meniscal repair surgery include infection, bleeding, blood clots, delayed healing, recurrent tears, and persistent knee pain or stiffness. Patients should discuss these risks with their orthopedic surgeon.
• Expected Outcomes: While meniscal repair can facilitate healing and preserve meniscal tissue, individual outcomes may vary. Success rates are influenced by factors such as tear size, tear pattern, patient age, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
• Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation is a critical component of meniscal repair recovery. Patients must actively participate in their rehabilitation program to achieve optimal outcomes and reduce the risk of complications or reinjury.

Other Information: Meniscal repair is preferred over meniscectomy (partial meniscus removal) in younger patients with certain tear patterns and sufficient remaining meniscal tissue. The decision to undergo meniscal repair should be made in collaboration with an experienced orthopedic surgeon, taking into account the patient's age, activity level, tear characteristics, and treatment goals.