Arthroscopic Meniscus Surgery

Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is a minimally invasive orthopedic procedure performed to diagnose and treat injuries to the meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage in the knee that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia). Meniscus tears are common in athletes and older adults and can result from trauma, twisting injuries, or degenerative changes.

The procedure is typically done under spinal or general anesthesia. Small incisions, usually two or three, are made around the knee joint to insert an arthroscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical instruments. The camera displays images on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the knee in real-time and perform precise interventions.

There are two main types of arthroscopic meniscus surgery:

• Meniscectomy – The damaged portion of the meniscus is trimmed and removed.
• Meniscus Repair – The torn edges are sutured back together, usually in younger patients with better healing potential and when the tear is in a well-vascularized zone.

The entire procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. It is generally done on an outpatient basis, allowing the patient to return home the same day. Recovery time varies depending on the procedure type: a few weeks for meniscectomy and several months for meniscus repair, with physical therapy playing a key role in regaining strength and mobility.

Benefits of arthroscopic meniscus surgery include less postoperative pain, smaller scars, lower risk of infection, and quicker recovery compared to open surgery. However, not all meniscus tears require surgery—some can be managed conservatively with rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.