When Should You Have Surgery for A Torn Meniscus?

Surgery for a torn meniscus will be indicated after an Dr. Silver uses an arthroscope to view the inside of your knee, to confirm the medial meniscus tear. A medial meniscus tear occurs frequently in athletes who play high contact, or high collision sports including football and hockey. However, a medial meniscus tear can also be caused by squatting, lifting something heavy, or even kneeling. The older you are, the more likely you are to suffer from a torn meniscus, as your bones, tissues and cartilage of the knee wears down over time, and after years of use.

Symptoms of Torn Meniscus

A torn meniscus often presents with symptoms in men and women in the San Fernando Valley including stiffness, swelling, pain (particularly when twisting your knee), or an inability to fully straighten your leg.

Surgery for Torn Meniscus in the San Fernando Valley

After Dr. Silver confirms the medial meniscus tear first through an MRI, and then through diagnostic arthroscopy, the loose portion of the medial meniscus posterior horn is removed, leaving the remainder of the meniscus intact.

Risks and Complications of Partial Meniscectomy

The arthroscopic removal of part of the meniscus is considered low risk, and complications from this minimally invasive surgery are rare. Because arthroscopic surgery uses tiny incisions, the chance of developing infection is greatly reduced. Likewise, there is less scarring from arthroscopic surgery than from open forms of knee surgery. Possible though rare complications may include knee stiffness. It is possible that you may also be prescribed antibiotics or compression socks to prevent blood clots, but these are uncommon.

Recovery from Partial Meniscectomy

The good news about having an arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn medial meniscus is that you can walk immediately after the surgery. A brace is generally necessary, but recovery from this surgery is typically fast, with most patients recovering within four weeks.

If your knee feels like it is going to give out, or you're experiencing pain or swelling in the knee, you need to see an expert orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible to prevent additional, or worsening injuries. Dr. Silver, Founder of Silver Orthopedics in Encino has performed tens of thousands of arthroscopic surgeries. Contact Silver Orthopedics in Encino at 818- 784-9593 to schedule an appointment.