Meniscus repair overview and what to expect

Meniscus tears are a common injury that occurs in the joint. The menisci are C-shaped pieces of cartilage, two in each knee, that help to cushion the joint and provide stability. While they are tough, repetitive strain or sudden trauma and twisting can cause them to tear. The most serious tears can require meniscus repair surgery.

The decision to undergo knee surgery should be made on as informed a basis as possible. To get a clearer picture of this procedure, we have put together the following guide. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like to learn more about our treatment options for knee injuries.

When does meniscus repair become a consideration?

In many cases, meniscus tears do not require surgery. This is particularly true of minor tears on the outside of the meniscus, which can heal quicker. Upon diagnosis of a tear, physicians typically recommend a course of nonsurgical treatments. This can include rest, changing daily activities, over-the-counter medication, ice and physical therapy. It is very important not to overexert your knee when recovering from a meniscus tear, as it can worsen the injury.

Meniscus repair surgery can become an option in the following situations:

• The tear occurs in the inner portion of the meniscus, which receive less blood flow
• Pain and mobility problems are severe and affect daily activities
• A less serious tear worsens
• Symptoms are not responding to conservative treatments and the tear is not healing

Meniscus repair procedure overview

There are a range of approaches to meniscus repair surgery, and procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis with an arthroscope and minimally invasive techniques. Generally, the objective is to reach the meniscus in the knee and perform a repair of the tear and/or remove a small piece of the damaged meniscus that is disrupting movement.

After the surgery, the postoperative team will provide full recovery and rehabilitation instructions. This will include guidelines on how to care for the incision and when to resume activities. Recovery for a meniscus repair varies, with many patients requiring anywhere from one to three months or longer. It is important to stay as active as safely possible, with physical therapy being an essential part of the recovery period.

Meniscus repair surgery cost 

Meniscus repair surgery cost can depend on the type and extent of the procedure performed and the insurance provider. Medicare will cover meniscus repair surgery if ordered by a physician as a necessary part of treatment. USA Spine Care works with Medicare, most private health insurances, workers’ compensation claims and personal injury cases. We will be glad to help you with answers to questions about the cost of procedures.

Reach out to USA Spine Care today

To find out about our full range of treatment options for meniscus repair, including conservative and surgical treatments, contact USA Spine Care today.

Contact us today to learn more. Call toll free 1-866-249-1627.