Meniscus Repair Surgery
Preserve your knee's natural shock absorber with advanced meniscus repair
What is Meniscus Repair?
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to fix torn meniscus cartilage in the knee. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber and provides stability to the knee joint. When possible, repair is preferred over removal (meniscectomy) to preserve joint function and prevent future arthritis. This procedure is typically performed arthroscopically through small incisions.
Preservation Priority: Whenever possible, meniscus repair is preferred over removal because it preserves the knee's natural shock absorption and reduces arthritis risk by up to 70%.
Types of Meniscus Tears
Different types of meniscus tears require different treatment approaches:
- Longitudinal Tears: Vertical tears that are often repairable, especially in the outer third
- Horizontal Tears: Tears parallel to the joint surface, less likely to heal
- Radial Tears: Tears from inner edge outward, challenging to repair
- Complex Tears: Combination of tear patterns, often requiring partial removal
- Bucket-Handle Tears: Large longitudinal tears that can be repaired if tissue quality is good
- Degenerative Tears: Age-related wear tears, usually not repairable
Repair Techniques
Inside-Out Repair
Sutures placed from inside the joint to outside, providing strongest repair but requiring additional incision.
Outside-In Repair
Sutures placed from outside to inside, good for posterior tears with less invasive approach.
All-Inside Repair
Sutures placed entirely through arthroscopic portals, fastest technique with good outcomes.
Meniscus Repair Process
Evaluation & Imaging
MRI and physical examination to assess tear pattern, location, and tissue quality to determine repairability.
Arthroscopic Surgery
45-90 minute procedure using arthroscope to visualize tear and place sutures to repair the meniscus.
Protected Recovery
6-8 weeks of protected weight bearing and limited motion to allow healing of repaired tissue.
Rehabilitation
Progressive physical therapy over 3-4 months to restore strength, motion, and function.
Am I a Candidate for Meniscus Repair?
Good candidates for meniscus repair typically have:
- Acute tears: Recent injuries (within 6-8 weeks) heal better
- Peripheral location: Tears in the outer third have better blood supply
- Longitudinal pattern: Vertical tears are more amenable to repair
- Good tissue quality: Healthy meniscus tissue without degeneration
- Stable knee: No significant ligament instability
- Active lifestyle: Patients who benefit from preserving meniscus function
Preserve Your Knee's Natural Function
Don't let a meniscus tear lead to future arthritis. Schedule a consultation to see if meniscus repair can preserve your knee's natural shock absorption and function.
Arthroscopic procedure. Same-day outpatient surgery available.