A surgeon discussing Meniscus Surgery (Meniscectomy) options with a patient in Florida
Treatment/Treatment Details

Meniscus Surgery (Meniscectomy)

Meniscus surgery removes damaged meniscal tissue when repair isn't possible, relieving pain and mechanical symptoms while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

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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.

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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:

Arthroscopic meniscectomy removing damaged meniscal tissue

The Meniscectomy Procedure

  1. Performed arthroscopically via small incisions
  2. The surgeon visualizes the torn meniscus and assesses the extent of damage
  3. Only the damaged, unstable portion is removed using specialized instruments
  4. Healthy meniscal tissue is preserved whenever possible
  5. The joint is thoroughly irrigated to remove any loose fragments
  6. 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 Timeline: 4-8 Weeks for Full Return to Activities

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is meniscus surgery?

Meniscus surgery treats torn meniscus through arthroscopic repair (suturing the tear) or partial meniscectomy (removing damaged tissue). Repair is preferred in younger patients with repairable tears in the vascular zone. Debridement removes torn fragments causing mechanical symptoms.

When is meniscus repair recommended over removal?

Meniscus repair is preferred in younger patients (<40), acute tears, peripheral tears in the vascular zone, and vertical longitudinal tears. Repair preserves the meniscus, protecting against future arthritis. Success rates are 70-90% for appropriate repairs.

What is the recovery time for meniscus surgery?

Recovery varies by procedure. Meniscectomy: 4-6 weeks for return to activities. Meniscus repair: 3-6 months with initial protected weight-bearing and limited motion to allow healing. Contact sports require full rehabilitation and strength return.

Can you walk immediately after meniscus surgery?

Walking depends on procedure type. Meniscectomy allows immediate weight-bearing as tolerated. Meniscus repair typically requires crutches with protected weight-bearing for 4-6 weeks to protect the repair. Your surgeon will specify your restrictions.

Will I develop arthritis after meniscus surgery?

Risk varies by procedure. Meniscus removal increases arthritis risk proportional to amount removed. Meniscus repair preserves the shock-absorbing function, reducing future arthritis risk. Degenerative meniscus tears in older patients often indicate pre-existing arthritis.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Meniscus tear causing pain or mechanical symptoms? Our knee specialists can evaluate whether repair or removal is best for your situation. Schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.

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.