What is a meniscus tear?
The meniscus is made up of two crescent-shaped pieces of cartilage tissue located in the knee joint. These cartilages help to balance the load on the knee and absorb shock. However, the meniscus can tear in situations such as a sudden twisting movement, lifting heavy loads, or falling on the knee.
Symptoms usually include swelling, pain in the knee, limited movement, and sometimes locking.
How to treat a meniscus tear?
Once a meniscus tear is diagnosed, the treatment plan is determined depending on the size and location of the tear, as well as the age of the person. Some meniscus tears can heal on their own and may not require surgical intervention.
- Rest, ice and physical therapy:
In the first stage, recovery can be achieved through non-surgical treatments. Depending on the severity of the tear, rest, ice application and simple physical therapy exercises that reduce pressure on the knee may be effective. Physical therapy strengthens the muscles around the knee and relieves pressure on the meniscus.
- Medicine treatment:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat meniscus tears, which reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These medicine provide relief to the patient by significantly reducing pain and swelling in the knee, especially in small tears.
Does a meniscus tear require surgery?
Some meniscus tears may require surgery, especially if the tear is large or causes severe locking of the knee. The decision to operate is usually made by the doctor taking into account the type of tear and the general condition of the patient. We can divide them into two types
- Arthroscopic surgery:
Arthroscopy is the most commonly used method for meniscus tear surgery. This method involves repairing the torn meniscus or removing the damaged part by inserting a small camera into the knee. This procedure is less invasive than other surgical methods and patients’ recovery time is shorter.
- Meniscus repair:
If possible, the meniscus tissue is repaired by suturing. This method protects the meniscus and ensures a healthier knee structure in the long run. However, the recovery process after this surgery may take longer and physical therapy is essential for a full recovery.
What is meniscus surgery and why is it performed?
Meniscus surgery is a surgical procedure to repair or remove torn meniscus tissue in the knee. It is usually performed using a minimally invasive method called arthroscopy. This method involves making small incisions in the knee and inserting a camera (arthroscope) and thin surgical instruments into the knee. This allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint in detail and repair or remove the damaged meniscus tissue.
Meniscus tears do not always require surgery. Small tears can heal with rest, physical therapy, and medications. However, in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. The main reasons for surgery are:
- Large tears: If the meniscus tear is large and natural healing seems difficult, surgical intervention may be necessary. If large tears are left untreated, further damage to the knee may occur.
- Locking of the knee: A meniscus tear can prevent normal movements of the knee and lead to a condition called “locking.” This is a serious problem and requires surgery.
- Chronic pain and swelling: For persistent pain and swelling that does not go away with rest or medication, meniscus surgery may be the solution.
- Active lifestyle: A meniscus tear can cause severe movement limitations in people who play sports or lead an active lifestyle. Surgery helps these people return to their normal lives quickly.
Who is not suitable for meniscus surgery?
Meniscus surgery may not be suitable for everyone. Small tears that respond well to treatment can usually heal without surgery. In addition, in elderly patients, surgery may not always be preferable if the tear occurs due to wear and tear. Whether or not surgery is necessary is decided based on the medical examination and MRI results.
Healing process and consequences after meniscus surgery
After meniscus surgery, most patients can return to their daily activities within a few weeks. However, physical therapy is very important to fully strengthen the knee and regain its previous flexibility. If you regularly perform the exercises prescribed by your doctor, the quality of life after meniscus surgery increases rapidly.
After surgery, it is important to rest, avoid placing any strain on the knee, and continue the physical therapy recommended by your doctor on a regular basis. Apply ice to reduce swelling and watch for signs of infection. By taking your medications regularly, you can slowly return to your daily activities.