Postoperative care for meniscus repair

Post-Operative Care for Meniscus Repair Surgery

A meniscus tear can occur at any age. In younger individuals, it is usually caused by sudden twisting of the leg, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in high-intensity sports that involve frequent rotational movements. Many people who suffer from a meniscus tear also experience knee instability (such as ligament tears) or weakness in the surrounding muscles.

Meniscus Tear

In older individuals, meniscus tears are often degenerative, resulting from knee wear and tear due to aging. These types of tears are more common in people with arthritis.

Degenerative Meniscus Tear

A meniscus tear may not always cause noticeable symptoms, and some individuals may not even realize they have a torn meniscus. However, choosing the appropriate treatment largely depends on the severity, type, and size of the tear. Based on the doctor’s diagnosis, treatment may involve non-surgical methods or surgery.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Meniscus Tears

Non-surgical treatments include:

• Taking anti-inflammatory medications
• Resting and avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms
• Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation
• Using a knee brace or support
• Physical therapy and corrective exercises

These measures can be effective for mild cases of meniscus tears.

Surgical Treatments for Meniscus Tears

Surgery is recommended for severe meniscus tears that significantly impact daily life and do not respond to non-surgical treatments. The most common symptoms indicating the need for surgery include knee pain, knee locking, knee instability, and occasional swelling.

Meniscus repair surgery is a safe procedure that helps slow joint damage, delay the onset of knee arthritis, and restore mobility. This allows patients to return to their daily activities and previous levels of physical function.

However, not all meniscus tears can be repaired. Complex or fragmented tears, as well as those accompanied by severe cartilage damage, may require a total knee replacement. Age also plays a crucial role in the success of treatment.

Like any surgical procedure, meniscus repair surgery may have temporary side effects, such as knee stiffness, infection, or joint tightness.

Meniscus Repair Surgery

Post-Operative Care for Meniscus Repair Surgery

Arthroscopic meniscus repair surgery typically takes about one hour. It can be performed alongside other procedures, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, repair of other damaged knee ligaments, or corrective surgery for bow-leggedness.

After surgery, patients will be able to walk with the assistance of crutches. The following post-operative care measures should be taken:

• Patients are discharged from the hospital the day after surgery, but full recovery from arthroscopic surgery may take several weeks or months.
• Follow-up clinical examinations and prescribed pain relievers are necessary to manage post-operative pain.
• Keeping the knee elevated while resting helps prevent joint swelling.
• During the first week after surgery, the knee should be immobilized using a special knee brace.
• Crutches should be used while walking until physical therapy sessions are completed to protect the knee from excessive strain. The duration of crutch use, the degree of knee bending allowed, and the timing for returning to light sports activities will be determined by the doctor. Generally, crutches are recommended for about six weeks.
• Participating in physical therapy sessions is essential for reducing pain and improving knee mobility. The number of required sessions depends on the patient’s condition, as determined by the doctor. Adhering strictly to the rehabilitation program is crucial for achieving the best surgical outcome.
• Any excessive bleeding, discharge on the bandage, breathing difficulties, or other concerns should be reported to the surgeon immediately.
• The patient should avoid bending the knee beyond 90 degrees for several months after surgery.