What is Meniscus Surgery?
Meniscus surgery, also known as a meniscectomy, is a procedure to remove damaged or torn cartilage from the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber for the knee. It sits between the thighbone and shinbone and cushions between the two bones. Doctors remove, repair, or replace the menisci. The procedure can help patients suffering from knee pain, swelling, and instability. In addition, the method may help prevent future injuries to the ligaments, cartilage, and bony surfaces of the knee joint.
Evidence suggests that meniscus injuries and tears are much more common than previously thought. This may be because MRI technology has become more advanced, allowing doctors to detect more minor tears that may have gone undetected.
When Meniscus Injuries Occur?
Meniscus injuries can occur suddenly when you twist or pivot too quickly, particularly when you don’t have good foot support. A meniscus tear can also develop over time because of wear and tear on the knee joint. Middle-aged people who participate in sports like soccer and basketball that involve constant twisting and pivoting movements typically see these.
An injury or an overuse injury can lead to tearing in this cartilage. An outward force that pulls on the knee usually causes a tear in the outer part of the meniscus, which is the most common injury. This can happen when you play sports, particularly football or soccer, and you make a sudden turn or twist while running. Another cause of torn ACL can be a forceful contraction of the leg muscles while they are already in a flexed position. This type of injury is referred to as a “sprain.”
An MRI can be used to see if there is any damage to the meniscus. If there is damage, then surgery can be recommended by your doctor. The doctor will remove any damaged portions of the meniscus during surgery and then sew up the healthy parts together to recreate the cushioning effect. Most patients can go home on the same day that they have surgery, but they must carefully follow their doctor’s instructions to ensure proper healing.
Meniscus Surgery Video
I got another video for you. I did one last week on a meniscus tear.
Today I got a video for you on knee cartilage removal or meniscectomy.
It is a quick video where the surgeon removes a shredded medial meniscus.
Enjoy the video.
CLICK HERE to watch the YouTube video.
Let me know if you like when I look for these injury and surgery videos.
I did a post a while back on meniscus exercises, to read it, CLICK HERE.
Take care.
Rick Kaselj
