Dr. Rahul Gupta is a top Orthopaedician at Apollo Hospitals Sector 26 in Noida. Holding MBBS, MS, Dr. Rahul Gupta specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of Orthopaedics conditions, including Achilles Tendon Rupture, Ankle Sprain, Bursitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and more.

Contact

+91-9810963757

0120-4012000

E-2, Apollo Hospitals Rd, Block E, Sector 26, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301

Orthopaedician At Apollo Hospitals

Meniscal Repair

The meniscus is a crescent-shaped piece of cartilage in your knee that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). A meniscal tear is one of the most common knee injuries, especially among athletes. Meniscal repair is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage in the knee joint. It involves stitching the torn edges of the meniscus together to promote healing and restore the natural structure of the knee. This procedure aims to preserve the meniscus and prevent long-term joint problems.

Our Meniscal Treatment Approach

A torn meniscus can be treated with non-surgical methods like RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and pain relievers, or with surgical options like meniscectomy (removal of the torn part) or meniscal repair. The best approach depends on the severity and location of the tear, as well as the patient’s symptoms and overall health.
Diagnosis
  • Clinical examination (McMurray’s test, joint line tenderness)

  • MRI scan to evaluate tear type, size, and location

2. Treatment Options
Non-Surgical:
  • Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)

  • Anti-inflammatory medications

  • Physical therapy

Surgical:
  • Meniscal Repair (Preserving the Meniscus):

    • Arthroscopic procedure using sutures or anchors

    • Suitable for tears in the outer (red-red or red-white) zone

  • Partial Meniscectomy (Trimming the Meniscus):

    • Only the damaged portion is removed

    • Performed when the tear is in a non-healing zone (white-white zone)

Meniscal Repair Surgery: What to Expect

  • Performed under regional or general anesthesia

  • Minimally invasive (arthroscopic)

  • Small incisions with quick recovery

  • Same-day discharge in most cases

  • Rehabilitation begins within days

Orthopaedician at Apollo Hospitals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is meniscal repair better than meniscectomy?

Yes, when feasible. Meniscal repair preserves the natural cartilage, reducing the risk of early arthritis and maintaining knee function better in the long term.

2. Can all meniscus tears be repaired?

No. Only tears in the vascular zones (outer part) have the potential to heal after repair. Complex or degenerative tears may require partial meniscectomy instead.

3. How long does meniscal repair surgery take?
  • Typically between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity and whether other knee issues (e.g., ACL tear) are being addressed simultaneously.

4. When can I walk after meniscal repair?

Most patients use crutches for 2 to 4 weeks. Weight-bearing is gradually allowed depending on the tear location and surgeon’s recommendation.

5. Is meniscal repair painful?

Post-operative discomfort is common but manageable with pain medications, rest, and ice therapy. Pain reduces significantly within the first two weeks.