Meniscal Removal and Repair

Name: Meniscal Removal and Repair
Brand: Elanic Medical
Rating: 4.4 (50 reviews)

Meniscal removal and repair surgery is a common orthopedic procedure used to treat meniscal tears.

Meniscal Removal and Repair Surgery

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber and helps to distribute weight evenly across the joint. Meniscal tears can occur as a result of injury or degeneration and can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Meniscal removal in Glasgow, also known as a partial meniscectomy, involves removing the damaged portion of the meniscus. This procedure is typically performed arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon. Meniscal repair surgery, on the other hand, involves stitching the torn meniscus back together. If you’d like to learn more about meniscus repair and removal, Elanic is here to help. Our team of expert surgeons was handpicked to offer you elevated levels of expertise and care, and we’ll help you on your journey to lasting well-being. When you’re ready to get started, reach out to Elanic Medical and speak with a helpful member of our team to set up your consultation today.

Do I Need Meniscal Surgery?

Meniscal removal and repair surgery is a procedure that involves the removal or repair of the meniscus, a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone and the shin bone in the knee joint. The meniscus can become damaged due to injury or degeneration, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

During meniscal removal surgery, the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed through a small incision in the knee. This procedure is known as a partial meniscectomy and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Recovery time is relatively quick, with most patients able to resume normal activities within a few weeks.

Meniscal repair surgery, on the other hand, involves repairing the damaged meniscus rather than removing it. This procedure is typically performed when the tear is located on the outer edge of the meniscus, where there is a good blood supply to aid in healing. Meniscal repair surgery is more invasive than meniscal removal surgery and requires a longer recovery time.

When is Meniscal Removal and Repair Surgery Needed?

Meniscal Tear

Meniscal tears can occur due to a sudden twisting or pivoting movement. These tears can be partial or complete and can occur in any part of the meniscus. The symptoms of a meniscal tear include pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. In some cases, the tear may cause a locking or catching sensation in the knee joint.

Degenerative Meniscal Tears

Degenerative meniscal tears are more common in older individuals and are a result of wear and tear over time. These tears may be asymptomatic or may cause mild to moderate pain and swelling. In some cases, degenerative tears may lead to larger tears or complete detachment of the meniscus.

Meniscal Transplant

Meniscal transplant is a surgical procedure that involves the replacement of a damaged or removed meniscus with a donor meniscus. This procedure is typically reserved for patients who have undergone previous meniscal surgery and have significant pain and functional limitations.

Types of Meniscal Removal and Repair Surgery

Partial Meniscectomy

Partial meniscectomy is one of the most common types of meniscal removal surgeries. This procedure involves removing only the damaged part of the meniscus, leaving the healthy part intact. The surgeon will make a small incision and use a small camera to guide the removal of the damaged tissue. This type of surgery is often done on an outpatient basis, and the patient can usually return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Total Meniscectomy

Total meniscectomy is a more extensive type of meniscal removal surgery that involves removing the entire meniscus. This procedure is typically only done when the meniscus is severely damaged and cannot be repaired. While total meniscectomy can provide relief from pain and other symptoms, it can also increase the risk of developing arthritis in the affected joint.

Meniscal Repair

Meniscal repair in Glasgow is a surgery that attempts to repair the damaged meniscus rather than remove it. This type of surgery is typically only done on younger patients with healthy tissue and a good blood supply to the area. The surgeon will use sutures or other techniques to repair the torn meniscus, and the patient will need to wear a brace for several weeks after the surgery to protect the repair.

Meniscal Transplantation

Meniscal transplantation involves replacing the damaged meniscus with a donor meniscus. This procedure is typically only done on younger patients with severe meniscus damage who are not good candidates for meniscal repair surgery. The donor meniscus is typically obtained from a cadaver and is carefully matched to the patient's size and shape. While meniscal transplantation can provide relief from pain and other symptoms, it is a complex surgery with a long recovery time.

Recovery from Meniscal Removal and Repair Surgery

After surgery, patients are typically sent home with instructions to rest and elevate their leg. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort, and patients may need to use crutches or a brace to support the knee. Patients should avoid putting weight on the affected leg until cleared by their doctor.

During the first few days after surgery, patients should also monitor their incision site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If any of these symptoms occur, patients should contact their doctor immediately.