Meniscus Surgery

What is Meniscus?

Meniscus is a special crescent-shaped cartilage located in the knee joint. This structure helps the joint between the femur and tibia to move smoothly and smoothly, while also contributing to the protection of the joint against impacts. Rupture of this critical structure in the knee can cause the joint to not function properly and cause pain in this area.

Meniscus tears usually occur due to sudden movements or trauma. For example, making a sudden turn while playing football or bending the knee at an incorrect angle while running can cause a meniscus tear. In addition, with age, the structure of the meniscus weakens, which may increase the risk of tearing.

What are the Symptoms of Meniscus Tear?

Meniscus tear is a disorder caused by damage to the cartilage structure in the knee and can be seen in different age groups. Symptoms may be similar for individuals of all ages, but the severity and type of tear can affect the intensity of symptoms. Some symptoms frequently observed in individuals experiencing meniscus tears are:

• Constant or periodic pain in the knee.
• Swelling in the area where the tear occurred.
• Increased sensitivity when pressure is applied to the knee.
• Locking of the knee or feeling of getting stuck during movement.

However, in some cases, a slight aching or crackling sound may be heard in the knee. It is recommended that people who experience meniscus tear symptoms consult an orthopedic specialist without delay. This can help make the correct diagnosis and determine the most effective course of treatment.

How to Diagnose Meniscus Tear?

Diagnosis of meniscus tear is usually made through clinical findings and advanced imaging methods. If you experience symptoms such as pain, swelling or limitation of movement in your knee, it is recommended that you consult an orthopedic specialist and be examined.

First, your doctor will listen to the injury and symptoms in detail and perform a physical examination. During this examination, symptoms such as tenderness, swelling, and limitation of movement in the knee are checked.

Radiological examinations may be used for a more detailed evaluation. While X-ray is used to evaluate the bone structure and possible bone damage in the knee, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) shows the soft tissues, including the meniscus, in much more detail and is very effective in determining the location, size and severity of the tear.

Once diagnosed, you should discuss treatment options with your doctor. While some meniscus tears are treated with arthroscopic surgery; Some patients can also recover with physical therapy and medical treatment methods. Especially in elderly patients and individuals with joint arthritis, treatment methods other than surgery can be used. During this process, your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment method and guide you.

How is Meniscus Surgery Performed?

Meniscus surgery is a procedure to repair the injured meniscus in the knee or remove the damaged part. Arthroscopic surgery is a commonly used method for meniscus surgery, and this technique allows the knee to be operated on with only small incisions.

Arthroscopic Technique: The surgeon inserts a thin tube called an arthroscope into the knee. This tube has a camera at the end, so the surgeon can see the inside of the knee clearly on the screen. This imaging is used to determine exactly where the meniscus tear is and how large it is.

Meniscectomy: If the meniscus tear is irreparable, the damaged portion may need to be removed. This procedure is called meniscectomy, in which damaged cartilage tissue is removed. The surgeon tries to preserve healthy meniscus tissue and removes only the torn part.

Meniscus Stitching: Some meniscus tears can be repaired by direct stitching. This type of repair is performed with the arthroscopic technique and the torn meniscus is brought together with special suture materials.

Meniscus Transplantation: If a large part of the meniscus is damaged and needs to be completely removed, a new meniscus transplant can be performed in its place. This procedure is generally preferred in younger patients and less advanced knee injuries. The meniscus taken from the donor is placed appropriately inside the knee and fixed with special techniques to keep it in place.

After this type of surgery, patients need appropriate rehabilitation and physical therapy programs to fully recover and return to normal activities. You should talk to your doctor in detail about the surgery and the process to be followed afterwards.

What is the Recovery Time After Meniscus Surgery?

The recovery process after meniscus surgery can vary depending on the procedure performed by the surgeon, the location and severity of the tear, and the general health condition of the patient. However, after meniscus surgery with arthroscopic surgical techniques, most patients can return to their normal lives in a short time.

Some pain and discomfort is expected after the operation, but this is usually manageable and short-lived and can be alleviated with medications. Physical therapy sessions may be recommended to support the healing process. This treatment helps increase the flexibility and strength of the knee.

There are some risks of complications in the postoperative period. These may include infection, bleeding, clot formation, or possible complications related to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimized when appropriate precautions are taken and patients follow doctor’s recommendations.

Meniscus tears are a common problem that can seriously affect knee function. However, today, thanks to modern surgical techniques, such injuries can be treated effectively and quickly, allowing patients to return to their active lives in a short time.