Meniscal tears
The meniscus is a specialized ‘C shaped’ piece of cartilage between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). It functions to act as a shock absorber between the 2 bones. It also helps stabilize the knee when we move. The meniscus is flexible. There are different types of meniscus tears and some tears won’t heal without treatment. The meniscus gets its blood supply from the lining (capsule) of the knee joint. Therefore, tears that are close to the capsule have a better blood supply and a better chance of healing than those tears further away from the capsule. The decision to attempt a repair is based on patient symptoms, plus the location and pattern of the tear. ‘Degenerative’ tears are common in arthritic knees and are often treated with analgesia, weight loss, physio, gentle exercise etc.
Patient problems: Pain, swelling, ‘catching’ sensation in the knee. Often caused by a sudden twisting movement.
Non-surgical treatment: analgesia.
Meniscal repair
Meniscal repair can usually be performed arthroscopically. Dr McGonagle will use a camera and small instruments inserted through small cuts around the knee. The meniscus will be fixed back to the capsule, where it belongs! Small anchors or sutures inside the knee will be used to hold it in place. The advantage of a meniscal repair is that it allows the meniscus to continue its protective role, acting as a shock absorber and stabiliser of the knee. This reduces the risk of developing arthritis in future.
Duration in hospital: 1 night
After Surgery
Hinge knee brace 0-90 degrees for 6 weeks
50% weight bearing for 6 weeks
Aspirin to minimize blood clot risk for 6 weeks
Practice nurse wound check at 2 weeks.
Review in Dr McGonagle’s clinic at 6 weeks
6-12 weeks: full weight bearing out of brace. Avoid running, jumping, deep squats, aggressive twisting movements.
12 weeks onwards: progress towards gentle sporting activities
Meniscal resection
A meniscal resection involves removing the torn part of the meniscus. The minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure is also known as a meniscectomy. If you require a partial meniscectomy, your doctor will remove a piece of the torn meniscus so your knee can function normally. Only the damaged portion of meniscus will be removed, leaving as much normal tissue as possible.
Duration in hospital: 0.5 days
After Surgery
Full weight bearing as able.
Practice nurse wound check at 2 weeks.
Review in Dr McGonagle’s clinic at 6 weeks
