
Meniscus Surgery (Meniscectomy)
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Removing Damaged Meniscal Tissue
Meniscus Surgery (meniscectomy) is an arthroscopic procedure performed to remove damaged meniscal tissue when repair is not possible or appropriate. The meniscus is the C-shaped cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in the knee, and when torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms like locking or catching.
While meniscus repair is preferred to preserve tissue, some tears are not repairable due to location (inner white zone with no blood supply), pattern, or tissue quality. In these cases, partial meniscectomy removes only the damaged portion while preserving as much healthy meniscus as possible.
At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our knee specialists use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to remove damaged tissue while preserving healthy meniscus, optimizing outcomes and minimizing the risk of future knee arthritis.
Explore Knee Conditions & Treatments
View all knee conditions and treatment options →Who Needs Meniscus Surgery?
- Patients with meniscal tears that are not repairable due to location or pattern
- Those with degenerative tears in the inner white zone (no blood supply)
- Individuals with persistent mechanical symptoms like locking or catching
- Patients who have failed conservative treatment
- Those with complex tears that cannot be repaired
- Individuals with tears causing significant pain and functional limitations
- Patients who understand that removal may increase long-term arthritis risk
What Conditions does Meniscus Surgery (Meniscectomy) Help Ease?
This procedure may help with:
The Meniscectomy Procedure
- Performed arthroscopically via small incisions
- The surgeon visualizes the torn meniscus and assesses the extent of damage
- Only the damaged, unstable portion is removed using specialized instruments
- Healthy meniscal tissue is preserved whenever possible
- The joint is thoroughly irrigated to remove any loose fragments
- The incisions are closed and the patient begins immediate rehabilitation
Benefits of Meniscus Surgery (Meniscectomy)
- Relieves pain and mechanical symptoms quickly
- Faster recovery than meniscus repair
- Minimally invasive with small incisions
- Preserves as much healthy meniscus as possible
- Allows rapid return to activities
- Outpatient procedure with same-day discharge
Recovery After Meniscectomy
Recovery from meniscectomy is typically faster than meniscus repair since the tissue doesn't need to heal—only the surgical sites need to recover.
Phase 1 (Weeks 1-2): Weight-bearing as tolerated, range of motion exercises, and control of swelling. Most patients walk comfortably within days.
Phase 2 (Weeks 2-4): Progressive strengthening, restoration of normal gait, and return to most daily activities.
Phase 3 (Weeks 4-6): Advanced strengthening, return to low-impact activities, and initiation of sport-specific exercises.
Phase 4 (Weeks 6-8): Return to full activities and sports, typically around 6-8 weeks when strength and range of motion milestones are met.
Related Knee Treatments
Explore other knee treatment options:
Frequently Asked Questions
When is meniscus repair recommended over removal?
What is the recovery time for meniscus surgery?
Can you walk immediately after meniscus surgery?
Will I develop arthritis after meniscus surgery?
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Locations Offering Evaluation
Our board-certified specialists offer meniscus surgery (meniscectomy) evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

