Meniscus Repair
Causes of Meniscus Tears
Acute Injury
Often in younger individuals during sports or sudden twisting/pivoting movements
Commonly occurs with ACL injuries
Degenerative Tears
More common in older adults
Can occur with minimal trauma, such as turning the knee while getting into a car
Caused by gradual weakening and thinning of cartilage
Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear
Sharp pain on the inner or outer knee
Swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion
Catching, clicking, or locking sensation
Pain while squatting, twisting, or walking
In bucket handle tears, the knee may get “stuck” and be unable to fully extend
Diagnosis
Detailed medical history and clinical examination
Check for joint line tenderness, swelling, or strength loss
Provocative tests to assess meniscus integrity (pain or clicking suggests tear)
X-rays to rule out arthritis or fractures
MRI scan to confirm the tear and plan treatment, especially if ligaments are involved
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Management
Suitable for small, stable, or degenerative tears in low-demand patients
Includes:
Anti-inflammatory medications
Physiotherapy for strength and knee control
Cryotherapy to reduce swelling
Activity modification
Occasional joint injections for pain relief
Note: Bucket handle tears usually require surgery.
Surgical Management – Arthroscopic Meniscus Surgery
Recommended for large or unstable tears or persistent symptoms
Minimally invasive, performed through keyhole incisions using an arthroscope
Surgical Approaches:
Meniscus Repair – Suturing torn edges; preferred for younger patients with good blood supply
Partial Meniscectomy – Removing the torn portion if it cannot be repaired
Preserving the meniscus is ideal, as removing too much increases the long-term risk of arthritis.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Gradual return to motion
Muscle strengthening
Activity restrictions depending on whether the meniscus was repaired or partially removed
