Meniscus Tear Surgery: Procedure & Cost

The recovery time depends on the type of meniscus surgery performed. Meniscus repair typically requires 3 to 6 months as the meniscus needs time to heal, with an initial period of limited weight-bearing and physiotherapy. Partial meniscectomy has a shorter recovery period of around 4 to 6 weeks since the damaged portion is removed rather than repaired. Meniscus transplant recovery can take up to 9 months, as the new meniscus must integrate with the surrounding tissue.

Meniscus surgery is considered a minimally invasive procedure rather than a major surgery. It is typically performed arthroscopically using small incisions, which reduces recovery time and the risk of complications. However, in cases requiring meniscus transplantation or combined procedures such as ACL reconstruction, the surgery may be more complex and require a longer recovery period.

Walking on a torn meniscus may worsen symptoms, particularly if the tear causes mechanical issues such as locking or instability. Small tears may not cause immediate problems, but repetitive stress on the knee can lead to further damage over time. It is advisable to avoid activities that cause pain and to seek medical advice for proper management.

Whether meniscus surgery is worthwhile depends on the severity of the tear, symptoms, and individual activity levels. Surgery is often recommended for patients with persistent pain, mechanical symptoms such as locking or catching, or tears in areas with poor healing potential. However, small or degenerative tears in older individuals may be managed conservatively with physiotherapy and lifestyle modifications. It is best to consult your doctor or specialist who can determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Meniscus surgery is not painful during the procedure because anaesthesia is used. After surgery, pain levels vary. Partial meniscectomy usually causes mild discomfort while meniscus repair and transplant may result in more pain due to healing. Pain can be effectively managed with medication, icing and physiotherapy and it typically improves over time.

The meniscus does not naturally grow back once removed. However, meniscus repair allows the existing tissue to heal if the tear is in an area with good blood supply. If a large portion of the meniscus has been removed, a meniscus transplant may be an option to restore cushioning in the knee.

Meniscus repair and meniscectomy typically range from $9,000 to $25,000, while meniscus transplantation can cost up to $30,000. Prices may also depend on factors such as surgeon expertise, facility fees, and post-operative care.

Stair climbing is usually limited in the early recovery phase, especially after meniscus repair or transplant. Patients who undergo a partial meniscectomy may be able to climb stairs cautiously within a few days to weeks. Physiotherapy is essential for rebuilding knee strength and stability before resuming such activities. It is advisable to consult your surgeon or physiotherapist before attempting stairs.

If a meniscus tear is left untreated, it may lead to ongoing knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms. Over time, an unstable meniscus can contribute to cartilage wear, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis. However, some small or degenerative tears may be managed conservatively if they do not cause significant symptoms. It is best to consult a doctor or specialist for proper assessment and treatment of your condition.

There is no fixed age limit for meniscus surgery, as suitability depends on factors such as knee health, activity level, and the presence of arthritis. Younger, active patients often benefit from meniscus repair, while older individuals with degenerative tears may be better managed with conservative treatments or knee replacement if arthritis is advanced. A specialist will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

A knee brace may be recommended for certain meniscus tears, particularly if there is instability or pain with movement. However, not all cases require bracing, and prolonged use without physiotherapy can lead to muscle weakening. A doctor or physiotherapist can best advise on whether a brace is necessary based on the severity of the tear.

The fastest recovery depends on following appropriate treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical. Rest, physiotherapy, strengthening exercises, and avoiding activities that strain the knee are essential. For those undergoing surgery, adhering to post-operative rehabilitation guidelines can help to speed up healing.

Limited knee bending is common in the early stages of recovery, especially after meniscus repair or transplant. Swelling, pain, and stiffness can temporarily restrict movement. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring range of motion. If stiffness persists despite rehabilitation, consult your doctor or specialist for further evaluation.

The decision to undergo meniscus surgery depends on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the type of tear, and activity levels. If conservative treatments like physiotherapy do not provide relief or if there are mechanical symptoms such as knee locking, surgery may be recommended. Consulting a doctor or specialist is the best way to determine if surgery is the right option for you.

The cost of arthroscopic meniscus surgery depends on the procedure. Meniscus repair typically ranges from $9,000 to $13,000, partial or total meniscectomy costs between $16,000 and $25,000, while meniscus transplantation ranges from $20,000 to $30,000. Prices may vary based on surgeon expertise, facility fees, and post-operative care.

Meniscus surgery is generally recommended if the tear causes pain, instability, or mechanical symptoms that affect daily activities. However, in cases of minor tears with minimal symptoms, non-surgical management may be a viable option. Consulting with a doctor or specialist can help determine the most appropriate treatment options.

Meniscus surgery is usually not an emergency unless there is a locked knee or severe instability. However, delaying treatment for symptomatic tears may lead to worsening damage over time. If you experience severe or persistent knee problems, it is best to consult a doctor or specialist for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

The decision to undergo surgery should be made in consultation with an orthopaedic specialist who will assess your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment. Factors to consider include the severity of symptoms, impact on daily activities, and the likelihood of successful non-surgical treatment.

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, nuts, and collagen-rich sources like bone broth may support joint health. Maintaining a balanced diet helps with overall knee recovery.

Small, stable tears, particularly those in the outer vascular zone, may heal without surgery through physiotherapy and activity modifications. However, larger or unstable tears often require surgical intervention. It is best to consult a doctor or orthopaedic specialist for a proper evaluation to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with meniscus surgery typically use crutches for 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the extent of the repair. Weight-bearing is gradually increased as healing progresses. It is important to follow your specialist’s or physiotherapist’s advice for optimal recovery.

Swelling is common after surgery and usually subsides with rest, ice therapy, and elevation. However, persistent or worsening swelling may indicate an issue such as infection or fluid buildup and should be promptly evaluated by your doctor or specialist.

Walking is usually possible within a few days to a week after a partial meniscectomy, while meniscus repair or transplant patients may need several weeks of limited weight-bearing before walking without crutches. It is best to follow your specialist’s or physiotherapist’s guidance for a smooth recovery.

To reduce the risk of arthritis, it is important to follow a structured rehabilitation programme, maintain a healthy weight, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and avoid excessive strain on the knee.

A knee brace may be advised for stability, particularly after meniscus repair, but not all patients require one. Prolonged use without proper rehabilitation could weaken muscles. It is best to consult your specialist or physiotherapist to determine whether a knee brace is necessary for your recovery.

Keyhole surgery refers to minimally invasive techniques used to treat meniscus tears. Arthroscopic surgery, a common form of keyhole surgery, involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments through tiny incisions to assess and repair the meniscus. This technique reduces tissue disruption, promotes faster recovery, and lowers the risk of complications compared to open surgery.