Meniscal Surgery
A torn meniscus also called a torn cartilage needs surgical intervention. This depends very much on the location of the tear. Please visit our website for further information on meniscal tears and anatomy of the menisci.
Surgery to the outer portion of the meniscus can heal well as this portion receives a good blood supply. Any intervention to the inner portion of the meniscus will not heal as this portion receives no blood supply.
Surgery is not necessary for all meniscal tears. Conservative measures are the desired option as the first line of treatment. Whether physiotherapy alone would suffice or injections will also be needed will be determined by the size and location of the tear and your activity levels.
The surgeon may elect to repair the tear arthroscopically if the outer portion of the cartilage has suffered a tear. The tear can be stitched or tacked into place and its success depends on the size and location of the tear. Braces are used to protect the knee and crutches for mobility for a period of one month following surgery. Any further instructions on postoperative care will be given by your surgeon.
Tear very close to the medial portion of the knee where there is less blood supply or very large meniscal tear need to be addressed by entirely removing the damaged section. Surgeons don’t attempt to repair the tears in the inner section of the meniscus as they will not heal.
The damaged part of the meniscus is resected arthroscopically using a specialised shaver and the remaining meniscus is left untouched. Patients are very satisfied after removal of the meniscus and can immediately start rehabilitation. Functional recovery is within days of the procedure. The risk of developing knee osteoarthritis increases in the long term if the meniscus has been removed. Your Surgeon will discuss the long term risks and benefits of surgery and will suggest the most beneficial course of action depending on your condition and activity levels.
If you want to obtain more information on meniscal surgery or if you want to book an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of professional surgeons and nurses are dedicated to answer any queries you may have and will book for you an appointment with a Consultant Knee Surgeon.
If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP. You can simply refer yourself and book an appointment.
If you are insured privately by Bupa, Axa PPP, Aviva, etc, you will need to get in touch with your insurer to authorise any treatment and you will require a referral letter from your GP. In case you do not have a GP, then our in-house private GP will refer you. If this is not suitable, then we will suggest the next course of action based on your location and individual circumstance.
You can contact us on 98450-54810 or email us at [email protected]