Meniscus Repair FAQ

Many people might find themselves moved from the pitch to the sidelines with a meniscus tear.

Your meniscus is a C-shaped disc of soft cartilage in your knee that connects your thigh bone to your shin, which can be injured easily while doing activities that rotate or put pressure on the joint.

With any surgical procedure, it’s expected you may have some questions about your procedure and the recovery process. Your Medbelle Patient Care Adviser is here to help and answer any questions you may have, before and after your surgery.

To help you feel prepared for your surgery, we’ve put together a quick list of questions we get asked by meniscus repair patients all the time.

Every patient is different so it's always best to check in with your Patient Care Adviser if you have any concerns or queries. If you have any urgent medical concerns you will be able to contact the nursing team, and they will give you the medical advice that’s best for you.

Can my meniscus tear heal itself?

The meniscus doesn’t have the best blood supply, so, unfortunately, it doesn’t have the ability to heal itself after tearing.

If it's a small tear, it’s possible the pain might subside, but larger tears require repair.

What is involved in meniscus repair surgery?

Meniscus repair surgery is an outpatient surgery to reconstruct or remove a torn or damaged meniscus.

This is a type of arthroscopic surgery, meaning a small camera and surgical tools are inserted through small incisions on the knee.

The camera provides the surgeon with a clear view of the inside of the knee, while they use the surgical instruments to trim and repair the tear.

Meniscal repair is a simple surgery and you will only be left with the small scars from the incisions that will fade over time.

What will I need to do during my recovery from meniscus surgery?

For any recovery, it’s key to follow your doctor’s post-op instructions.

Their advice might include keeping weight off your knee, icing and elevating it, and keeping your incision clean.

You’ll also begin physical therapy to strengthen your knee and the surrounding area.

How soon after my surgery can I return to my regular activities?

Most patients are able to resume their regular activities between 4 and 6 weeks after surgery.

As with any surgery, your surgeon will be able to tell you the best timeline for you and your recovery.

Could a meniscus tear lead to me needing a knee replacement later?

For most younger patients, the risk of needing a knee replacement is relatively small.

However, for some older patients with large tears, there is a chance that a knee replacement might be eventually required.

If these haven’t answered all your questions, get in touch with a Patient Care Adviser today, and they will talk you through every detail of your meniscal repair procedure.