The meniscus is the c-shaped cartilage that surrounds both sides of the knee, providing balance, support, and shock absorption in healthy knees. A meniscal tear can be the result of anything from a sports injury to overexertion of the knee during everyday activities. Meniscal tears can often heal on their own without surgery, but if the tear is severe and a piece of the torn cartilage moves into the joint space, causing excessive pain, swelling, and limited mobility, it may require surgery to correct.
Meniscus Tear Surgeon
A meniscus tear surgeon will often use a procedure known as arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn meniscus. This surgery involves making a series of small incisions and using an arthroscope to repair the joint damage. Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, and patients can usually resume normal physical activity once a series of post-surgery rehabilitation exercises have been completed. This is especially beneficial in cases where the patient is a professional athlete, and the risk of repeated injury is greater due to overuse. However, meniscal tears are the most common knee injuries and can affect non-athletes as well.
Meniscus tear surgery and post-surgical rehabilitation plans depend on several factors, such as the severity of the tear and a patient’s age, fitness, and activity levels. Surgeons can recommend that patients keep the knee immobile up to two weeks after surgery, although rehabilitation exercises will begin immediately after surgery. Each plan is individualized for the patient, and it is important to follow your physician’s plan to ensure an optimal recovery.
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