Menisectomy

Before the surgery, local or general anaesthesia may be administered to numb the area or put the patient in temporary sleep, respectively. Meniscus surgery is mostly performed with the help of an arthroscope. It is a special instrument with a camera attached to it. It is used to examine the knee joint, identify the area of damage, and conduct the repair.

During the surgery, an arthroscope is inserted through a small incision near the knee joint. The surgeon is able to view the joint and accordingly guide surgical instruments to make the repair. In the case of total meniscectomy, the entire meniscus is removed. In partial meniscectomy, the surgeon tries to remove as a limited amount of meniscus as possible.

Some patients may require an open procedure for meniscus removal. It is up to the surgeon to decide which approach would be best suitable for the patients. But the end decision lies with the patient. Arthroscopic meniscus tear treatment is usually conducted in the outpatient room.

You will be advised to rest after the surgery, followed by light exercises and walking. People who undergo an arthroscopic procedure are usually able to put weight on their affected leg within a day or two of the surgery. The rest of them may take a couple of more days. Arthroscopic procedure is a minimally-invasive procedure that allows for quick recovery and minimal pain and healing time. Such patients can return to their normal routine and full activities within two to four weeks, while others may take up to eight weeks.

Painkillers may be administered to relieve any discomfort that the patient may experience. It is important for the patients to follow the exercise routine and take rehabilitation seriously after the surgery to expedite recovery.