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Meniscectomy

A meniscectomy removes all or part of the meniscus, the crescent-shaped cartilage between the thigh bone and shin bone that cushions the knee, distributes weight, and adds stability. It relieves pain, catching, and locking from a torn meniscus, usually through small arthroscopic incisions.

What Is A Meniscectomy?

The meniscus acts as a cushion and shock absorber in the knee. When it tears, a loose flap can catch in the joint and cause pain, swelling, and locking.
 
During a meniscectomy, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the meniscus. Depending on the extent of the damage and the patient’s overall health, all or only part of the meniscus may be removed; preserving as much as possible protects the knee. Learn more about meniscus tears.

Why A Meniscectomy May Be Needed

A meniscectomy may be necessary for:

Meniscus tearsPain, catching, and locking from a torn meniscus. Knee painPersistent mechanical knee pain. Sports injuriesTwisting injuries during sports.
Other causesRarely, infection, tumors, or abnormal growths in the meniscus.
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Is A Meniscectomy Right For You?

A meniscectomy can be highly effective for pain and discomfort from a torn meniscus that has not improved with conservative care, or that causes catching and locking. An examination and MRI show the type and location of the tear.
 
If you already have MRI imaging, you can sign up for our free MRI review.
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How A Meniscectomy Works

A meniscectomy is typically arthroscopic and outpatient:

  1. 1

    Anesthesia

    You are made comfortable for the procedure.

  2. 2

    Small incisions

    An arthroscope is placed in the knee through a small incision.

  3. 3

    Trimming the tear

    The damaged portion of the meniscus is removed and the edges smoothed.

  4. 4

    Home the same day

    Most patients go home the same day.

Recovery And Outlook

Recovery varies with the extent of surgery and your overall health.

First days

Normal activities

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.

Weeks 1 to 4

Physical therapy

Therapy helps regain strength and range of motion.

Weeks 4 to 6

Sports

Strenuous activities such as sports may resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a meniscectomy?

A meniscectomy is a procedure that removes all or part of the meniscus, the crescent-shaped cartilage cushion between the thigh bone and shin bone in the knee.

Why is a meniscectomy performed?

The most common reason is knee pain from a torn meniscus caused by injury or degeneration. Less commonly, it is done for infection, tumors, or abnormal growths in the meniscus.

Is a partial or total meniscectomy more common?

Partial meniscectomy, removing only the damaged portion, is far more common, because preserving as much meniscus as possible protects the knee.

Is meniscectomy done arthroscopically?

Yes. Most meniscectomies are performed arthroscopically through small incisions, as an outpatient procedure.

How long is recovery?

Many patients return to normal activities within a few days, while returning to strenuous activities such as sports may take about 4 to 6 weeks.

Will I need physical therapy?

Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and range of motion in the knee.

What is the difference between a meniscectomy and a meniscus repair?

A meniscectomy trims away the torn portion, while a repair stitches the tear so it can heal. The choice depends on the tear's location and pattern and your age and activity level.

How do I know if I need a meniscectomy?

An examination and MRI determine the type and location of the tear. Call (321) 499-4646 to schedule.

Benefits Of Meniscectomy

A meniscectomy can:

  • Relieve knee pain from a torn meniscus.
  • Stop catching and locking in the joint.
  • Restore motion and function.
  • Allow a quick return to normal activities.
  • Be performed arthroscopically as an outpatient procedure.
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Related Treatments

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic surgery, also known as arthroscopy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat injuries and problems in the joints. Orthopedic arthroscopy is a common procedure used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, and wrist.

Knee Ligament Reconstruction

Also known as a knee ligament repair, this procedure involves replacing the damaged ligament in the knee with a healthy tendon.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an advanced form of extended care that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal conditions to help relieve chronic pain and other symptoms.

Knee Replacement

Minimally invasive knee replacement relieves arthritis pain with smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and a faster recovery.

Joint Replacement

Orthopedic joint replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or diseased joint with an artificial joint, also known as a prosthesis. The most common joints that are replaced are the hip and knee, but joint replacement surgery can also be performed on the shoulder, elbow, ankle, and finger joints.

Total Hip Replacement

When hip pain interferes with daily life and is not helped by more conservative treatments such as pain management or injections, it may become necessary to replace the hip with an artificial implant.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty is a procedure used to relieve pain and improve function in individuals with severe shoulder joint arthritis or a shoulder joint injury.

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various ankle conditions. This procedure involves the use of an arthroscope, a thin tube with a camera, to examine and repair the inside of the ankle joint. The procedure is performed through a small incision, reducing the risk of scarring and speeding up recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

Pain Management Injections

Several types of injections can be used to diagnose and treat back pain. In many cases, injections are used for both purposes at the same time.

Arthroscopic Vs. Open Surgery

The Arthroscopic Advantage

How arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery of the knee compares with traditional open surgery.

Open surgeryArthroscopicMinimally invasive
IncisionOne larger incision to open the joint.A few small incisions for a camera and slim instruments.
Soft tissueMore disruption of muscle and tissue.Less disruption of the surrounding tissue.
VisualizationDirect view through the open incision.A magnified camera view inside the joint.
Hospital stayMay require a hospital stay.Usually outpatient; most patients go home the same day.
Recovery and scarringA longer recovery and a larger scar.Typically less pain, smaller scars, and a quicker start to rehabilitation.

An arthroscopic meniscectomy relieves pain from a torn meniscus through small incisions, with a quick return to normal activities.

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Why Choose Total Spine and Orthopedics

Expert, ultra-minimally invasive spine and orthopedic care, close to home.

  • Ultra-minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques

    We specialize in procedures performed through incisions smaller than a dime, sparing muscle and supporting a faster recovery.

  • Same-day, outpatient procedures

    Most patients walk in and return home within hours, rather than facing an overnight hospital stay.

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons

    Our team includes early leaders in endoscopic spine surgery.

  • A complimentary MRI review

    Understand your diagnosis and options from a board-certified specialist before committing to any treatment.

  • Trusted by our community

    More than 1,100 patient reviews at a 4.6-star average, and over 50,000 patients treated.

  • Trusted orthopedic care

    We help you choose the best treatment for a meniscus injury.

  • Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care

    From injections to advanced procedures, your full continuum of care is handled in one place.

  • Convenient locations across the Space Coast and Orlando

    Care close to home in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville.

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