Surgery is considered when it is the right choice for you. Before your operation you will receive a Preparing for Surgery booklet and a detailed guide related to your specific procedure.
Overview
The menisci are two C-shaped cartilage cushions that sit between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). They spread load across the joint, absorb shock and help the knee stay stable. Losing meniscus tissue concentrates force on a smaller area of cartilage, which is why we preserve as much as we safely can.
- Repair preserves the meniscus, but recovery is longer.
- Trimming gets you back faster, but removing meniscus may increase the risk of arthritis.
Technique
- The surgery is done arthroscopically through two or three small incisions with a camera and arthroscopic instruments.
- The whole joint is inspected first. The tear is then assessed directly for whether it can be repaired.
- A repair is done with sutures placed through the torn edges to hold them together while they heal.
- A partial meniscectomy removes only the torn, unstable portion. As much healthy tissue as possible is preserved.
Partial meniscectomy and meniscus repair.
Image: Robert LaPrade, MD
Recovery
Getting Back to Activity
After a Partial Meniscectomy
- Days 0-3Walking right away, swelling settles
- Week 1Desk work and driving
- Months 1-2Physical work and sport
After a Meniscus Repair
- Weeks 0-6Brace and protected weight bearing
- Week 6Out of the brace, walking normally
- Months 3-4Running
- Months 5-6Cutting and pivoting sport
Progress is guided by swelling, motion and strength rather than time alone.
- Most repair failures happen in the first two years. New catching, locking or swelling is worth telling us about.
For how this condition is diagnosed and every treatment option, including nonoperative care, read the full Meniscus Tears guide.
Instructions and therapy protocols
Each version of this operation has its own post-op instructions and physical therapy protocol. Bring the protocol to your first therapy visit.
- Partial Meniscectomy or ChondroplastyPost-op instructionsPT protocol
- Meniscus RepairPost-op instructionsPT protocol
- Meniscus Root or Radial RepairPost-op instructionsPT protocol
