Typically, meniscal repair surgery takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the tear and the efficiency of the healthcare provider. It is advised to discuss the duration of your meniscal repair surgery with your doctor beforehand.

Synopsis
Meniscal repair is a procedure used to restore the torn meniscus muscles in the knee that hinder knee function and can cause long-term health complications like arthritis. Knee issues can cause many day-to-day problems, like pain in the knee while talking and climbing stairs. Meniscal repair can significantly improve the quality of life of the individual.
Introduction
The joints in the human body are vital for comfortably walking and performing our everyday tasks. Our knee has C-shaped cartilages that provide cushioning between the joints. Rigorous physical work for longer durations and age factors contribute to the tearing apart of this cartilage, which can cause a lot of pain and difficulty. One of the main treatment options for getting your meniscus corrected is Meniscal Tears Treatment in Bangalore, which is a meniscal repair treatment. The main aim of the meniscal repair procedure is to preserve the healthy meniscus tissues from getting any further damage.
What is Meniscal Repair?
Meniscal repair is a surgical procedure which is used to restore the structure and functions of the torn meniscus. Instead of completely removing the damaged part of the meniscus, a medical expert stitches the torn tissues of the meniscus muscles, which then heal naturally with time. This is a preferred approach as it preserves the natural cartilage and helps in preventing the early onset of arthritis. Generally, the surgery requires making a few incisions in the knee, and the procedure takes around an hour to complete. The recovery period can vary from person to person, depending on your case. Meniscal Tears Treatment in Bangalore helps people regain mobility of their knees.

Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus
With the help of early symptoms and signs, you can identify a torn meniscus and get timely Meniscal Tears treatment to avoid any further complications. Some of the symptoms of a torn meniscus include:
- Knee Pain- Feeling pain in the knees while twisting or rotating can be a sign of a torn meniscus or any other underlying health condition.
- Swelling and Stiffness- When your meniscus is torn, you might experience swelling or stiffness in your knee.
- Reduce Mobility- People can face difficulty in fully bending or straightening the leg. The meniscus manages the smooth movement of the knee joint. When it is damaged, movement is restricted.
- Difficulty Bearing Weight- Walking and standing for longer durations would become uncomfortable and cause knee pain.
Your health matters – get expert advice today.
The Procedure of Meniscal Repair
Before the surgery is started, a detailed evaluation of the patient is done to identify the meniscus tear, its severity, and other factors for providing an effective procedure. MRIs and physical examinations are done for this. Once the tests are done, the procedure is started. The surgical steps involved are:
- Anaesthesia- The procedure is done under anaesthesia to minimise the pain during the procedure.
- Arthroscopy- An incision is made in the knee through which a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted to check the torn meniscus.
- Repair Techniques- Different techniques are used depending on your condition. An inside-out technique is used in which the sutures are passed through the torn meniscus and tied outside the joint. An outside-in technique is used where sutures are pulled inside from the outside. Whereas in an all-inside technique, implants are used, and no large incisions are made.
- Closing the Incisions- The operated site is closed with stitches and then secured with bandages.
Risks and Challenges of Meniscal Repair
Some of the risks associated with a meniscal repair procedure include:
- Infection: Since the procedure is usually invasive, there is a chance of infection. The operated site, therefore, must be cleaned and sanitised regularly.
- Blood Clot: The activity of the leg is restricted for several weeks after the surgery until your wound is fully healed. This increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Nerve Damage: This is rare, but a nerve can be damaged during the suturing procedure. The process has to be done with a lot of care.
- Failure of Procedure: In a few cases, meniscus repair surgery is not effective and further surgical intervention is required.
Benefits of Meniscal Repair
Meniscal repair surgery is extremely beneficial for restoring the functions of the knee and treating a torn meniscus muscle. Some of the key benefits of meniscal repair are-
- Preserve Knee Function: Unlike meniscectomy, meniscal repair helps maintain the natural function and efficiency of the knee joint.
- Prevents Early Arthritis: Removing the meniscus entirely significantly increases the chances of having early arthritis. Repair, on the other hand, reduces this likelihood.
- Improved Stability: Restoring the meniscus muscles ensures an enhanced distribution of weight and further aids knee stability.
- Better Long-Term Outcomes: Patients who are experiencing mobility issues and want to reduce their pain can benefit more from this compared to meniscectomy. Meniscal tear repair provides more long-term benefits to patients.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery and aftercare of meniscal repair varies depending on the severity of the tear and the individual's healing capacity. The duration and difficulty of the healing journey are different for everyone.
1. Immediate Post-Surgery Care
- No pressure has to be put on the knee after the surgery. Patients are advised to use crutches to avoid putting weight on the knee for a few weeks.
- Some might have to get a knee brace to support and stabilise the knee region.
- Pain management techniques should be used in addition to the prescribed medications for relieving the pain.
2. Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
- Weeks 1-2: Gentle movements are allowed during this duration to prevent stiffness and blood clotting.
- Weeks 3-6: Gradual and light exercises can be done during this period to build strength and regain balance.
- Weeks 7-12: Strengthening exercises should be done to restore muscle balance.
- Beyond 12 Weeks: You can return to your normal activities after consulting your doctor and getting a detailed analysis done.
Why Choose Gleneagles Hospital for Meniscal Repair?
Gleneagles Hospital is a top-tier healthcare facility for Meniscal Tears Treatment in Bangalore and is famous for its treatment excellence in orthopaedic treatments. Here are a few reasons why it stands out.
- Expert Surgeons- At Gleneagles Hospital, you get access to some of the most experienced orthopaedic specialists for Meniscal Tears Treatment in Bangalore who work collaboratively to bring the best results.
- State-of-the-Art Technology- Gleneagles Hospital uses the most advanced arthroscopic equipment for enhanced precision and efficiency of the surgery.
- Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs- Personalized recovery plans are available to help every patient recover at their own pace and ensure no complications occur.
- Patient-Centered Care- Gleneagles Hospital focuses more on providing comfort, safety, and long-term health benefits to the patients.
- Proven Track Record- Gleneagles Hospital for Meniscal Tears Treatment in Bangalore has provided high success rates throughout its operational tenure and high patient satisfaction rates.
Conclusion
Getting a torn meniscal repair surgery might sound scary, but it is actually quite safe and not very painful. It is a highly effective treatment method for making your daily tasks much easier and reducing the pain and discomfort in your knees. You will have to take help for walking and performing various activities, but at least your issues will be resolved permanently. Rehabilitation can take time, and that is completely normal. Going for regular checkups and getting your knees checked will help ensure your overall well-being.
Our Doctors
View allFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, most patients require crutches to walk for a few weeks. This is mainly to avoid putting pressure on the knee as the stitches are still vulnerable, and putting pressure can cause a delay in healing.
Yes, minor tears may heal with proper rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication, but for severe tears, surgery is required. Checking the severity of your tear can help determine the right procedure for you.
The recovery period varies, but most patients can resume their sports after 4 or 6 months of the surgery with proper rehabilitation techniques and medication. Consulting your doctor is advised to check that your wounds are fully healed.
An untreated meniscus tear will lead to a disrupted life, causing chronic pain, instability, and an increased risk of early arthritis. It can also cause significant health issues if not adhered to on time.
Most insurance plans cover meniscal repair surgery. However, you are advised to contact your insurance provider to confirm whether it covers meniscal repair surgery or not.