Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure used to fix a torn meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci—medial (inner) and lateral (outer).
What is Meniscus Repair?
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to stitch the torn parts of the meniscus back together so it can heal naturally. Unlike removal (called meniscectomy), repair tries to preserve the meniscus, which helps long-term knee health.
- Pain is typically felt along the joint line, either medially (inside) or laterally (outside) depending on which meniscus is torn.
- Swelling may be mild to moderate and can increase after walking or physical activity.
- A torn flap of cartilage can get caught in the knee joint, causing it to: Lock in place, Catch when you try to move it.
- Many patients report hearing or feeling a “pop” at the moment of injury.
- The knee may feel unsteady or wobbly, especially when walking, turning, or going down stairs.
- You might feel like your knee is: Tight or stiff, Unable to move freely.
- Pressing along the joint line may cause localized tenderness.
- A clicking or grinding sensation may be felt when moving the knee after the tear.
Frequently asked questions
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to fix a torn meniscus. The surgery aims to restore the meniscus’ structure to provide cushioning and stability to the knee joint. It is different from meniscectomy, where part or all of the damaged meniscus is removed.
A meniscus tear can cause pain, swelling, and limited knee mobility. If untreated, it can lead to further knee damage or arthritis. Repairing the meniscus helps preserve knee function, reduces the risk of osteoarthritis, and can prevent the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
Vertical tears: These are common and generally repairable, especially if they are located in the “red zone,” where the meniscus has a good blood supply.
Horizontal tears: These can sometimes be repaired depending on their location and severity.
Complex tears: These might require a combination of repair and partial removal of the damaged tissue.
Radial tears: These are challenging to repair and may require a more customized approach.
Yes, most repairs are done with minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques using small incisions and a camera.
Full recovery can take 3 to 6 months. Most people return to normal activities in 4-6 months depending on healing and physical therapy.
Yes, usually for 2-6 weeks to keep weight off the knee as it heals.
Return to sports is typically allowed around 4-6 months post-op, once strength, flexibility, and stability are restored.
Many people return to full function, especially if they follow rehab protocols. However, outcomes vary and depend on the tear, your health, and adherence to rehab.