Partial Meniscectomy
A partial meniscectomy is a surgical procedure done to treat torn meniscus in the knee. Torn meniscus is commonly referred to as cartilage tear or torn cartilage cushion. Each knee has two menisci (one medial meniscus and one lateral meniscus). They are C-shaped pieces of cartilage which cushion the knee joint between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). They function as shock absorbers or cartilage cushions for the knee joint. A torn meniscus or meniscal tear is a common knee injury, and usually occurs when you traumatically twist or rotate your knee while your body weight is applied.
A torn meniscus happens frequently in sports, but can happen on the job in any work setting. Meniscal tears can happen to people of all ages. It can be a very painful injury and there are various types of meniscal tears. Knee pain, swelling, and loss of knee motion are common symptoms after sustaining a torn meniscus.
A Partial Meniscectomy Is an All-Arthroscopic Procedure
A partial meniscectomy is done as an all-arthroscopic procedure (visualized using a camera and video monitor; performed using small surgical instrumentsthrough very small incisions). The torn portion of meniscus is removed using small surgical instruments and a stable rim is achieved. If there are tears of both menisci, then this will be repeated. Surgery is done under general anesthesia and as an outpatient procedure (you are able to go home the same day).
There are always risks and benefits of surgery, and there are never any 100% guarantees regarding the outcome of surgery. The surgeon’s goal is to minimize the risks and help guide you to the best path of recovery. After surgery you will temporarily use crutches, but may put as much weight on the surgical leg as you feel comfortable. Physical therapy is commonly prescribed after surgery to ensure the best recovery. Recovery after surgery usually takes around four to six weeks.
