Meniscus Surgery
Repair or removal of torn knee meniscus cartilage.
The meniscus is a cartilage cushion in the knee that can tear from a twisting injury or gradually degenerate with age. Depending on the tear's location and pattern, it can either be repaired to preserve the tissue, or trimmed to remove the damaged portion while leaving healthy meniscus intact.
Types
Meniscus Repair
The torn edges are stitched back together, used for tears in a region of the meniscus with good blood supply.
Partial Meniscectomy
Only the damaged, unstable portion of the meniscus is trimmed away, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Meniscus Root Repair
A specific repair for tears at the meniscus's attachment point, which can otherwise significantly affect knee mechanics.
Meniscus Transplant
Used in select cases where a large portion of meniscus has previously been removed and is causing ongoing problems.
Common Causes
Meniscus tears happen either suddenly, from a twisting injury, or gradually, as cartilage weakens with age.
- Sports injuries - twisting or pivoting on a planted foot, common in football and similar sports.
- Deep squatting or kneeling injuries.
- Degenerative tears - cartilage naturally weakens with age, making tears more likely from minor movements.
- Combined ligament injuries - meniscus tears frequently occur alongside ACL injuries.
- Repetitive knee strain from certain occupations or activities.
Signs and Symptoms
- Knee pain, often along the joint line
- Swelling that develops over hours to a day after injury
- A catching or locking sensation during movement
- Difficulty fully straightening the knee
- A popping sensation at the time of the injury
Diagnosis
Diagnosis combines a clinical examination with specific tests for meniscus injury, along with an MRI that shows the tear's exact location and pattern, guiding whether repair or trimming is the more suitable approach.
Treatment Approach
Surgery is performed arthroscopically, with the specific approach depending on the tear's location, pattern, and the patient's age and activity level. Recovery after a repair is generally longer than after trimming, since repaired tissue needs time to heal before returning to full activity. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna assesses the tear on MRI and during the procedure itself to decide the most appropriate treatment.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026