Sports Medicine
MENISCAL REPAIR
Meniscal repair is a surgical procedure aimed at fixing torn cartilage in the knee. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber between the thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia), and a tear can cause pain, swelling, and limited knee mobility. This procedure is commonly performed after a sports-related injury or wear-and-tear over time. Meniscal repair is preferred over removal, as preserving the meniscus helps maintain knee function and reduce the risk of arthritis later in life..
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Preparing for Meniscal Repair
Preparing for meniscal repair involves a thorough evaluation of the knee, including MRI scans to assess the location and extent of the tear. Patients are often advised to undergo pre-operative physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and enhance flexibility, which aids post-surgery recovery. The patient is also briefed on the rehabilitation process and the importance of following post-operative guidelines to protect the healing meniscus.
Surgery Overview
Meniscal repair is usually performed arthroscopically under general or regional anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions and inserts a camera to view the knee joint. Special instruments are used to stitch the torn meniscus back together, preserving as much of the cartilage as possible. The procedure generally lasts about 1 to 2 hours, and after the surgery, the knee is bandaged to reduce swelling and promote healing.
Life After Meniscal Repair
After meniscal repair, rehabilitation is essential for restoring knee function. Physical therapy focuses on gradually improving range of motion, building strength, and enhancing stability. Patients may need to use crutches or a knee brace during the initial recovery phase to prevent putting weight on the knee. With proper rehabilitation, most individuals experience significant pain relief and a return to normal activity levels within a few months.