Meniscus Repair & Treatment

The meniscus is a C-shaped cushion of cartilage between the thigh bone and shin bone. It can tear during a twisting injury in young people, or wear out with age. A torn meniscus causes pain, swelling, catching or locking of the knee.

Common symptoms

• Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee
• Swelling and stiffness after activity
• Clicking, catching or locking of the knee
• Difficulty squatting or sitting cross-legged

Treatment options

Many small tears settle with rest, medicines and physiotherapy. When surgery is needed, the tear is repaired with sutures whenever possible to preserve the cushion; irreparable torn fragments are trimmed arthroscopically.

Recovery

After a meniscus trim, most people return to routine activities quickly. After a repair, the knee is protected for a few weeks to allow healing, followed by guided rehabilitation.