Meniscus tear surgery is a surgical procedure performed to repair or remove a torn meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Here’s what you can expect in terms of preparations and the procedure for meniscus tear surgery:
Preparations
- Evaluation: You will undergo a thorough evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon. They will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and order imaging tests, such as an MRI, to assess the location, size, and severity of the meniscus tear.
- Nonsurgical Options: In some cases, nonsurgical treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, and medication, may be attempted first. If these conservative measures fail to alleviate symptoms or if the tear is severe, surgery may be recommended.
- Preoperative Assessment: Prior to surgery, you may need to undergo blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), and other medical assessments to ensure you are in good health for the procedure. You may also be advised to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the surgery.
Procedure
- Anaesthesia: Meniscus tear surgery can be performed under different types of anaesthesia, including general anaesthesia (you will be asleep) or regional anaesthesia (you will be numbed from the waist down).
- Arthroscopy: The surgery is commonly performed using an arthroscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a camera and surgical instruments. Small incisions are made around the knee to insert the arthroscope and other surgical instruments.
- Assessment and Repair: The surgeon will examine the torn meniscus using the arthroscope. Depending on the type, location, and severity of the tear, the surgeon may either repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus.
- Meniscus Repair: If the tear is in a repairable location and has good blood supply, the surgeon may use sutures, anchors, or other techniques to stitch the torn edges together and promote healing.
- Meniscectomy: If the meniscus tear is not amenable to repair, the surgeon may remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. However, efforts are made to preserve as much healthy meniscus as possible.
- Closure: After the repair or removal is completed, the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical tape, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Recovery: After surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area, and the medical team will monitor your condition. You will be provided with pain medication and instructions for postoperative care, including activity restrictions, wound care, and rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation: This typically involves physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and stability in the knee. The specific exercises and timeline will be determined by the surgeon or a physical therapist.
Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress, remove stitches if necessary, and assess the effectiveness of the surgery.
It is important to note that the specific details of the procedure may vary depending on the individual case and the surgeon’s approach. Your orthopaedic surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions and information tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
