Meniscus Tear Treatment (Arthroscopic)
Arthroscopic repair or selective removal of a torn knee meniscus — preserving as much of this vital shock-absorbing structure as possible to protect the joint and prevent future osteoarthritis.
What is Meniscus Tear Treatment (Arthroscopic)?
The menisci are two C-shaped fibrocartilage wedges (medial and lateral) that distribute load across the knee, provide cushioning, and contribute to joint stability. A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries — occurring in young athletes through twisting injuries and in older adults through degenerative wear. Meniscus tear treatment aims to preserve as much healthy meniscal tissue as possible, since total meniscal loss significantly increases the risk of knee osteoarthritis. Treatment ranges from physiotherapy for minor tears to arthroscopic repair or partial meniscectomy for more significant injuries.
How the Procedure Works
Arthroscopic Assessment
The tear is visualised directly — size, pattern (bucket-handle, flap, radial, horizontal), and zone (red-red, red-white, white-white) are classified.
Repairability Decision
Tears in the vascular red-red zone are repaired; tears in the avascular inner zone that are irreparable are partially excised.
Meniscal Repair (if suitable)
Inside-out, all-inside, or outside-in suture techniques are used to restore the torn tissue — protecting the joint long-term.
Partial Meniscectomy (if irreparable)
The unstable torn fragment is trimmed to a stable rim — removing only the minimum necessary to relieve symptoms.
Post-op Protocol
Meniscectomy: return to activity in 2–4 weeks. Repair: protected weight-bearing 6 weeks; full recovery at 3–6 months.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Meniscal preservation is the priority — repair is chosen over removal wherever possible
- →Arthroscopic technique — no large incisions, minimal tissue disruption
- →Simultaneous treatment of associated ligament or cartilage injury
- →Same-day discharge for most patients
- →Meniscal repair protects against future knee osteoarthritis
- →Rapid return to work for sedentary jobs — 1–2 weeks post meniscectomy
"Meniscus preservation is something I feel strongly about. Every millimetre of meniscus we save reduces the long-term risk of osteoarthritis. If a tear can be repaired, we always choose repair — even if it means a longer recovery."
— Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu, Senior Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Satish Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.