Is it worth having meniscus surgery?

Surgery to repair tears in the meniscus relieves symptoms 85% of the time. That means that of 100 people who have this surgery, 85 have relief from pain and can use their knee normally, while 15 do not. Surgery to repair tears may reduce the risk of long-term joint problems.

Is it better to remove or repair meniscus?

In most patients, meniscus tear repair is preferred over meniscus removal. That's because studies have shown when the meniscus is repaired and preserved, patients tend to experience better overall healing and better long-term joint function.

What is the success rate of meniscus repair?

Success rates after meniscal repair range from 60% to 95%, but many reports are based on a small number of patients.

How long can you go without meniscus surgery?

Meniscus tears are the most frequently treated knee injuries. Recovery will take about 6 to 8 weeks if your meniscus tear is treated conservatively, without surgery.

What happens if you don't repair a torn meniscus?

An untreated meniscus tear can result in the frayed edge getting caught in the joint, causing pain and swelling. It can also result in long term knee problems such as arthritis and other soft tissue damage.

Meniscus Tear Surgery Necessary For All Patients?

Will a meniscus tear get worse without surgery?

If not treated, part of the meniscus may come loose and slip into the joint. You may need surgery to restore full knee function. Untreated meniscus tears can increase in size and lead to complications, such as arthritis.

Can a torn meniscus get worse over time?

A meniscus tear can get worse when left untreated. For example, you might have trouble managing the pain and swelling in your knee, or your knee may continue feeling like it's catching or locking. If you feel your symptoms are getting worse instead of better, it could be a sign that your tear isn't healing quite right.

Will my knee ever be the same after meniscus surgery?

Knee Swelling after Meniscus Surgery

Swelling is an indicator of inflammation, which is part of the normal healing process after surgeries such as a meniscus repair. It can sometimes persist for a few weeks following meniscal surgery.

Does the meniscus grow back?

The part of the meniscus removed does not grow back, but is replaced by fibrous tissue. There is an increased likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in patients who have undergone complete (total) menisectomy. It is therefore important to leave behind as much of normal meniscus as is possible.

Is meniscus surgery painful?

Arthroscopic meniscus repair is moderately painful. Because more soft tissue surgery is performed, it is more painful than a standard arthroscopy, but less painful than a ligament reconstruction or another procedure that requires drilling holes through the bone.

Why do meniscus surgeries fail?

Factors that may cause a failed meniscal repair include: Patients older than 40 years of age. Delayed treatment. Ragged, degenerative and complex tears.

Is it worth having a knee arthroscopy?

In particular, knee arthroscopy is often successful in helping reduce or eliminate pain associated with cartilage damage or soft tissue damage. Many doctors and patients prefer knee scoping to other procedures. That's because the orthopedic knee surgeon only needs to make a tiny incision to use the arthroscope.

Can a meniscus tear lead to knee replacement?

Conclusions: In patients with knee osteoarthritis arthroscopic knee surgery with meniscectomy is associated with a three fold increase in the risk for future knee replacement surgery.

What are the cons of meniscus surgery?

How painful is meniscus surgery recovery?

An uncomplicated meniscectomy will resolve most of the pain fairly quickly, but swelling and stiffness take time to resolve. It may take 4-5 months for full healing. The patient should be able to bear weight on the knee while standing or walking, immediately after surgery.

What are the long term effects of a torn meniscus?

Complications. A torn meniscus can lead to a feeling of your knee giving way, inability to move your knee as you usually do or persistent knee pain. You might be more likely to develop osteoarthritis in the injured knee.

Can I live without a meniscus?

Without a meniscus, you might gradually develop knee pain and arthritis of your joint. Replacing your meniscus may provide significant pain relief. It may also help prevent arthritis in your joint. This can develop when your cartilage becomes frayed and rough.

How can I rebuild my meniscus naturally?

Is it OK to exercise with a torn meniscus?

Doctors will usually advise against performing certain exercises when you have a meniscus tear. These exercises can put too much pressure on an already unstable knee. Avoid exercises that involve: pivoting.

What is the fastest way to recover from meniscus surgery?

You will recover more quickly if you carefully follow all your doctor's instructions. In your first days after surgery, you will need apply ice frequently and elevate your knee above your heart to help relieve swelling. Be sure to get plenty of sleep, to help your body heal.

Can a meniscus tear again after surgery?

An attempt should be made to preserve meniscal function by repairing tears, but even after arthroscopic confirmation of stable healing repaired menisci may tear again. The long-term rate of healing may not be as high as is currently reported.

Why do my knees hurt 3 months after meniscus?

Most meniscal surgeries (95%) are partial meniscectomies where part of the meniscus is actually removed, not just repaired. Therefore, the remaining meniscus is now smaller and does not perform as well.

What aggravates a torn meniscus?

Lifestyle and home remedies. Avoid activities that aggravate your knee pain — especially sports that involve pivoting or twisting your knee — until the pain disappears.

How do I know if my meniscus tear is severe?

Severe. A tear is usually labeled as severe if the meniscus has a big tear. Loose pieces may cause the knee joint to lock or catch. This level of injury may also keep you from bending or straightening your leg and can make walking difficult.

Should I wear a knee brace with a torn meniscus?

Yes. Although knee braces do not heal or treat your meniscus tear directly, they can provide extra support and stability for your knee while your meniscus injury heals. A good brace will protect your knee and take the pressure off your meniscus, allowing it to rest.