Meniscectomy: A Comprehensive Guide from Surgery to Recovery

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways
• Understanding Meniscectomy
• Types of Meniscectomy
• When Is Meniscectomy Necessary?
• Preparing for Meniscectomy
• Prolotherapy
• Medication and Diet Protocols
• The Meniscectomy Procedure Explained
• Recovery and Rehabilitation
• Risks and Complications of Meniscectomy
• Life After Meniscectomy
• Summary
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Contact ProHealth Clinic
• Author Bio
• References

Key Takeaways

• Knee meniscectomy is a surgical procedure for removing a torn meniscus, typically performed when conservative treatments fail.
• Partial meniscectomy preserves healthy tissue; total meniscectomy removes the entire meniscus.
• Preparation includes anesthesia discussion, medication review, and arranging transport home.
• Recovery involves pain management, physical therapy, and gradual return to activity.
• The recovery period after knee meniscectomy is important, with timelines for returning to work, sports, and daily activities depending on the extent of surgery and adherence to post-operative care.

Understanding Meniscectomy

Knee meniscectomy is a surgical removal of damaged cartilage (the meniscus) from the knee joint. Knee meniscectomy is typically performed using arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that uses tiny tools and a camera inserted through small incisions. This approach allows surgeons to precisely remove or repair the torn meniscus with minimal disruption to healthy tissue. The procedure is often chosen when meniscal tissue moves into the joint space, causing symptoms that do not resolve with conservative care. The main goal of knee meniscectomy is to improve mobility and reduce pain.

Types of Meniscectomy

• Partial meniscectomy: Only the damaged portion is removed, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible to reduce osteoarthritis risk.
• Total meniscectomy: The entire meniscus is removed, usually only if absolutely necessary. In some cases, the whole meniscus may be removed if repair is not possible.

The decision to perform a partial or total meniscectomy depends on the tear pattern and whether the tear is located in the outer third of the meniscus, which has a better blood supply and greater healing potential.

When Is Meniscectomy Necessary?

Meniscectomy is indicated for persistent knee pain, locking, or mechanical symptoms after 3–6 months of failed conservative treatment following a meniscus tear. Minor tears often cause only slight pain or swelling and may heal with conservative treatment, while more severe tears typically require surgical intervention. Meniscus repair is preferred when the tear can be repaired, as it preserves more of the meniscus, but meniscectomy is chosen for tears that cannot be repaired. Severe tears, degenerative meniscus, or associated injuries (like ACL damage) may also require surgery.

Preparing for Meniscectomy

Pre-surgery, patients meet with their healthcare provider, such as their surgeon or medical team, to discuss anesthesia, review medications, and undergo a physical assessment. Bring crutches, paperwork, and wear loose clothing. Arrange for a driver, as the procedure is outpatient and anesthesia is used.

Pre-Surgery Considerations

Disclose smoking habits and all medications. Stop smoking to improve healing. Cease blood thinners and anti-inflammatories as directed to reduce bleeding risk.

Prolotherapy: An Alternative to Meniscectomy

Many knee structures have poor blood supply, slowing healing. Prolotherapy involves injecting a regenerative solution to stimulate healing and collagen production, directly addressing the root cause of knee pain.
As prolotherapy treats the underlying issue, it is considered a permanent fix for many patients.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prolotherapy may not be suitable for everyone, and outcomes can vary. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here.

Medication and Diet Protocols

Disclose all medications to your doctor. Stop blood thinners and anti-inflammatories as advised. Fast for 8–12 hours before surgery. After surgery, start with clear liquids and advance your diet as tolerated. Pain medication may be prescribed after surgery to manage discomfort; always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding its use.

The Meniscectomy Procedure Explained

Meniscectomy is performed arthroscopically with small incisions and a camera. The surgeon removes the damaged meniscus tissue. The procedure takes about one hour. Open meniscectomy, which is a form of open surgery involving a larger incision, is rare and reserved for complex cases where arthroscopic techniques are not suitable due to the tear’s severity, location, or pattern.

The menisci are the cartilage structures in the knee that cushion and stabilize the joint.

After surgery, weight bearing is usually restricted initially, with gradual progression to full weight bearing as advised by the surgeon.

Post-Operative Care

• Pain managed with medication (opioids for 48 hours, then as needed)
• Elastic bandage and ice for swelling
• Discharge the same day, with follow-up in 1–2 weeks

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Expect soreness and swelling initially. The typical recovery time after meniscus surgery varies, but most patients regain knee function and can return to daily activities within one to two weeks. In minor meniscectomy cases, symptoms may resolve in two to three weeks. Full recovery, including returning to your usual routine and playing sports, may take several weeks, and patients should avoid heavy lifting until cleared by their healthcare provider. Physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength and mobility. Proper rehabilitation is essential for achieving a full recovery, returning to an active lifestyle, and safely playing sports.

Physical Therapy and Exercises

• Quadriceps and hamstring strengthening
• Range of motion and balance exercises
• Progressive return to activity

Home Care and Activity Resumption

Use crutches for about a week. Avoid impact sports for 6 weeks. Gradually resume normal activities as comfort allows.

Risks and Complications of Meniscectomy

• Infection, bleeding, or nerve injury
• Venous thromboembolism (VTE)
• Increased risk of osteoarthritis, especially after total meniscectomy
• Persistent swelling or pain

Identifying Post-Surgical Complications

Watch for persistent drainage, infection, or abnormal swelling. Seek medical attention for severe pain, fever, or loss of function.

Life After Meniscectomy

Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after meniscectomy. However, there is a higher risk of developing knee osteoarthritis or needing knee replacement in the future, especially after total meniscectomy. Compared to meniscectomy, meniscus repair surgery often involves a longer recovery period and may result in more postoperative pain initially, making pain management and adherence to medical advice especially important after meniscus repair surgery.

• Low-impact exercise (swimming, cycling) to strengthen the knee
• Weight management to reduce joint stress
• Using knee braces or supports during activity if needed
• Regular check-ups and imaging to monitor knee health

Ongoing Management and Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and avoid high-impact sports or sudden twisting movements. Use proper technique and equipment for all activities to protect your knee.

Summary

Meniscectomy is a common and effective surgical solution for persistent knee pain from meniscus tears when conservative treatments fail. Recovery involves physical therapy, gradual return to activity, and ongoing knee care. Prolotherapy offers a promising alternative for those seeking non-surgical, regenerative relief from knee pain. Early diagnosis, expert care, and diligent rehabilitation are key to long-term knee health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to recover from torn meniscus surgery?

Most patients recover in 4–6 weeks for daily activities, with full return to sports in 6–8 weeks. Recovery may be longer for complex cases.

What is a meniscectomy?

A meniscectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of a torn meniscus in the knee, usually performed arthroscopically.

How long does a meniscectomy procedure take?

The procedure typically takes about one hour and is usually done as day surgery.

What are the types of meniscectomy?

Partial meniscectomy removes only the damaged portion; total meniscectomy removes the entire meniscus.

What is the recovery process after meniscectomy like?

Recovery includes pain management, physical therapy, and gradual return to normal activities. Most patients can walk unaided within a week or two and resume sports in 6–8 weeks.

Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call

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Author Bio

Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating knee pain, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.

With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with knee pain and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.

He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.

Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.

Mr Eaton’s expertise has been featured in many national news and media publications, including The Telegraph, The Daily Mail, The Daily Express, Women’s Health Magazine, and The Scotsman.

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-eaton-4338225b/

References

1. Logan CA, et al. “Meniscal Tears: Pathology and Management.” Orthop J Sports Med. 2018;6(10):2325967118803585.
2. LaPrade RF, et al. “Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Knee: Current Concepts Review.” Am J Sports Med. 2010;38(3):656-669.
3. Rabago D, et al. “Prolotherapy in primary care practice.” Primary Care. 2010;37(1):65-80.
4. Beaufils P, et al. “The knee meniscus: management of tears and degenerative lesions.” EFORT Open Rev. 2017;2(5):195-203.
5. Stein T, et al. “Long-term outcome after arthroscopic meniscal repair versus arthroscopic partial meniscectomy for traumatic meniscal tears.” Am J Sports Med. 2010;38(8):1542-1548.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.