Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair
Arthroscopic Knee Procedures: Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair
Arthroscopic meniscal repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat tears in the meniscus, a crescent-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilises the knee joint. Meniscal tears can occur due to injury, overuse, or age-related degeneration, leading to pain, swelling, and limited knee function. Arthroscopic repair may help restore the meniscus’s natural structure, reduce symptoms, and improve knee stability and mobility.
What Is Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair?
Arthroscopic meniscal repair involves repairing a torn meniscus using small instruments inserted through tiny incisions around the knee joint. The procedure is typically performed using an arthroscope, a small camera that provides a clear view of the knee’s internal structures. By preserving the natural meniscus, this procedure aims to restore normal knee function and reduce the risk of long-term joint damage.
When Is Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair Recommended?
Arthroscopic meniscal repair may be recommended for individuals with:
- Tears in the Peripheral Zone: Tears located in the outer portion of the meniscus, where blood supply is better and healing is more likely.
- Acute Injuries: Traumatic meniscal tears, often caused by sports or sudden twisting movements.
- Associated Knee Injuries: Meniscal tears that occur alongside other knee injuries, such as ACL tears.
- Persistent Symptoms: Ongoing knee pain, swelling, or instability that does not improve with non-surgical treatments, such as physiotherapy or rest.
In some cases, meniscal tears that cannot be repaired due to their location or complexity may require partial meniscectomy (removal of the damaged portion) instead of repair.
Preparation For Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair
Preparation is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes:
- Pre-Surgical Assessment: Dr Scott Tulloch will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and request imaging tests such as MRI to evaluate the type and extent of the meniscal tear.
- Pre-Surgery Instructions: You may be advised to stop certain medications, follow fasting guidelines, and prepare for post-surgical recovery, including arranging for crutches or a knee brace.
- Prehabilitation: Strengthening exercises or physiotherapy may be recommended before surgery to optimise knee strength and flexibility.
What Happens During The Procedure?
- Surgical Technique: The procedure is typically performed arthroscopically, using minimally invasive techniques.
- Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (e.g., spinal anaesthesia) is used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Procedure Steps:
- Small incisions are made around the knee joint.
- The arthroscope is inserted to visualise the meniscus and surrounding structures.
- Specialised instruments are used to repair the meniscus with sutures or fixation devices.
- The knee is tested for stability before the incisions are closed.
- Duration: The procedure generally takes 1-2 hours.
Understanding The Risks
As with any surgical procedure, arthroscopic meniscal repair carries potential risks. Dr Scott Tulloch will discuss these with you and outline measures to minimise them. Possible risks include:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Stiffness or limited range of motion in the knee
- Failure of the meniscus to heal
- Rare complications, such as nerve or blood vessel damage
What To Expect After Surgery
- Hospital Stay: Arthroscopic meniscal repair is typically performed as a day procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
- Pain Management: Medications, ice therapy, and elevation may be used to manage pain and swelling.
- Assistive Devices: Crutches or a knee brace may be needed to protect the knee and limit weight-bearing during the initial recovery phase.
- Discharge Instructions: Patients will receive detailed guidance on caring for the surgical site, activity restrictions, and recognising signs of complications.
Rehabilitation And Recovery
- Recovery Timeline: Recovery from arthroscopic meniscal repair typically takes 3-6 months, depending on the size and location of the tear and adherence to rehabilitation.
- Physiotherapy: A tailored rehabilitation program is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and knee function.
- Activity Restrictions: High-impact activities should be avoided during recovery to protect the repaired meniscus.
Long-term Outcomes
Arthroscopic meniscal repair may help preserve the natural meniscus, reduce pain, and improve knee function for many patients. By addressing the tear and supporting healing, this procedure may also reduce the risk of future joint problems, such as arthritis.
Success rates for meniscal repair depend on factors such as the type and location of the tear and adherence to post-surgical care. Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Scott Tulloch are recommended to monitor progress and ensure optimal outcomes.
Maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle, including low-impact exercise, can help preserve knee health and support long-term recovery.
If you would like to learn more about arthroscopic meniscal repair or discuss your options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
