Meniscal Repair Of The Knee
Preserving the meniscus
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure aimed at suturing the torn edges of the meniscus to promote natural healing.
The meniscus, a C-shaped piece of cartilage located between your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) in each knee. There are two menisci in each knee—the medial meniscus on the inside and the lateral meniscus on the outside. These structures help cushion the knee joint, distribute load during movement, and provide stability by preventing your bones from rubbing together.
Injuries to the meniscus can occur during activities that involve twisting or rotating the knee, especially when the foot is planted on the ground.
Common causes include sports injuries, accidents, or degenerative changes in the knee and when the meniscus is torn. It can cause pain, swelling,stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee.
MENISCUS REPAIR SURGERY
Meniscus repair surgery is typically performed arthroscopically, using a small camera (arthroscope) and specialised instruments to repair the tear within the knee joint.
Meniscus repair is most successful in younger patients, particularly when the tear occurs in the “red zone”—the outer third of the meniscus with a good blood supply that supports healing. Ideal candidates for repair have a healthy weight, a stable, non-arthritic knee, proper alignment, and a favourable tear pattern.
If the tear is in the “white zone,” an area with poor blood supply, partial removal of the torn meniscus may be necessary for effective healing.
During the procedure, Dr Keeley makes small incisions in the knee to insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments. The torn edges of the meniscus are carefully trimmed and sutured to promote natural healing and maintain long-term joint function. To further enhance healing, small holes may be made in the non-weight-bearing areas of cartilage and bone, releasing marrow and blood cells to aid tissue regeneration.
The entire procedure typically takes Dr Keeley around 30 minutes, though it may take longer if additional procedures, such as ligament reconstruction, are needed.
The entire procedure typically takes Dr Keeley around 30 minutes, though it may take longer if additional procedures, such as ligament reconstruction, are needed.
After surgery, you will be able to return home the same day once you have fully recovered from the anaesthetic. Before you leave the hospital, Dr Keeley will review the arthroscopy findings with you and explain the management performed. A physiotherapist will also provide guidance on permitted exercises and, if necessary, instructions on using a brace.
You will have a follow-up appointment with Dr Keeley two weeks post-op to ensure proper recovery and to discuss the surgery findings and management. A second appointment is usually scheduled at six weeks to progress your rehabilitation.
For a simple meniscus repair, you can typically return to a desk job after a week and spend a few hours on your feet after two weeks. Depending on weight-bearing restrictions or brace use, gentle exercise may be resumed after six weeks. You will be given physiotherapy exercises to perform twice a day for several weeks until muscle function returns and deep squats should be avoided for at least three months.
Full recovery can take approximately 4 to 5 monthsfollowing surgery.
