A meniscectomy is a surgical procedure performed on the knee, addressing issues related to the meniscus, a piece of cartilage that provides cushioning. When this cartilage becomes torn, it can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. A meniscectomy involves the surgical removal of all or part of a torn meniscus. Here is more information about this procedure:
Addresses Torn Meniscus
A primary reason for a meniscectomy is a torn meniscus. These tears can occur in anyone, although they are typical in athletes. A tear can result from a sudden twist or turn of the knee while the foot is planted on the ground. Symptoms of a torn meniscus typically include pain, stiffness, a catching or locking sensation in the knee, and a feeling that your knee might give way.
Helps When Conventional Approaches Fail
Before a doctor suggests surgery, non-surgical treatments are typically attempted. These conventional approaches aim to manage the symptoms of a torn meniscus without requiring invasive procedures. Typical conservative therapies include the following actions:
- Rest the knee to avoid activities that cause pain.
- Apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling.
- Use compression bandages to control swelling.
- Elevating the leg helps decrease fluid buildup.
Physical therapy is another non-surgical approach. It involves specific exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee, which support the joint and may improve stability. Your doctor might recommend anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling. When these methods do not provide sufficient relief and symptoms persist, a meniscectomy may be presented as the next step.
Removes Torn Areas
During a meniscectomy, the surgeon’s focus is on the damaged portion of the meniscus. Surgeons typically perform the procedure arthroscopically, which means the surgeon makes a few small incisions around your knee. They insert a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, through one incision, allowing the surgeon to see the inside of the knee joint on a screen.
Specialized surgical instruments are then inserted through the other small incisions to facilitate the operation. The surgeon carefully examines the tear to determine the extent of the damage. Using the instruments, the surgeon trims and removes torn and unstable fragments of the meniscus.
The objective is to leave a smooth, stable rim of healthy meniscus tissue. By removing the frayed, damaged pieces that may be catching in the joint, the source of mechanical symptoms, such as locking and clicking, is addressed. The amount of tissue removed depends on the size and location of the tear.
Restores Function
After removing the damaged meniscal tissue, your body begins its healing process. The recovery period after a meniscectomy varies from person to person. A rehabilitation plan usually guides your recovery. This program helps you recover safely by following prescribed exercises and activity guidelines, allowing you to regain function in your knee. As you recover, you’ll gradually resume your daily activities. The goal is for you to return to a comfortable and sustainable level of activity, enabling you to move more easily.
Schedule a Meniscectomy Today
Understanding the meniscectomy procedure is the first step in addressing persistent knee pain from a torn meniscus. If non-surgical treatments have not provided the relief you need, this surgical option may be a path forward. To learn more about whether a meniscectomy is right for your specific situation, it is helpful to speak with a healthcare professional. Contact a clinic today to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist and discuss your options.
