Meniscal Repair/Debridement: Understanding Treatment Options
Meniscus tears rank as the most prevalent knee injuries among athletes, particularly those engaged in contact sports. These tears often result from sudden bends or twists in the knee, causing significant discomfort. Traumatic meniscus tears are common among athletes, while elderly individuals are more susceptible to degenerative meniscal tears due to cartilage wear and weakening with age. The meniscus, comprised of two wedge-shaped cartilage pieces positioned between the thighbone and shinbone, serves to stabilize the knee joint and absorb shock.
Symptoms of a torn meniscus include pain, swelling, stiffness, and sensations of catching or locking in the knee, hindering the full range of motion. Orthopedic surgeons assess these symptoms alongside medical history to formulate a treatment plan. Treatment strategies hinge on factors such as tear type, size, location, age, and activity level. While nonsurgical options suffice for small tears affecting only the outer edge of the meniscus, persistent symptoms often necessitate surgical intervention.
Surgical Intervention
Knee arthroscopy emerges as the primary surgical approach for meniscal tears. Surgical options encompass meniscus removal (meniscectomy), meniscus repair, and meniscus replacement. Arthroscopic procedures entail the insertion of a tiny camera through a small incision, affording surgeons a clear view of the knee on a monitor. Additional incisions facilitate
surgical maneuvers. Meniscectomy involves the use of specialized instruments like shavers or scissors to excise the torn meniscus. Conversely, arthroscopic meniscus repair involves pinning or suturing the torn meniscus based on the tear’s severity.
Meniscus replacement or transplantation entails replacing damaged cartilage with either donor cartilage or a lab-cultivated patch. This option serves as a viable treatment to alleviate knee pain, particularly for individuals who have undergone meniscectomy.
By comprehending the available treatment modalities for meniscal tears, patients and healthcare providers can collaboratively navigate towards optimal management strategies, aiming for enhanced knee functionality and improved quality of life.