Meniscus Transplantation
An advanced procedure to replace a severely damaged or previously removed meniscus with a size-matched donor graft — restoring shock absorption and protecting the knee from progressive arthritis.
What is Meniscus Transplantation?
Meniscus Transplantation replaces a severely damaged or previously removed meniscus with a size-matched donor graft. When a large portion of the meniscus is absent, the knee loses its shock-absorbing cushion, placing harmful stress directly on the cartilage surface and accelerating arthritis. The procedure is carefully planned — precise knee measurements are taken pre-operatively to select a donor meniscus of the correct size and shape, ensuring optimal fit and function inside the joint.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative Planning & Donor Matching
MRI confirms cartilage status; precise knee measurements are taken to select a size-matched donor meniscus; anaesthesia is administered on the day of surgery.
Arthroscopic Access
Small incisions allow insertion of the arthroscope, giving full visualisation of the joint interior to guide precise graft placement.
Recipient Site Preparation
Remaining damaged meniscus tissue is removed and joint surfaces are prepared to receive the transplant with correct anatomical positioning.
Donor Meniscus Preparation
The donor graft is trimmed and shaped to match the patient's knee dimensions for a precise, functional fit.
Graft Placement & Fixation
The donor meniscus is positioned and secured with sutures and fixation devices to ensure stable integration and correct load transmission.
Inspection & Wound Closure
Placement, alignment, and joint movement are confirmed; incisions are closed and the knee is protected with a brace during the healing phase.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Restores the meniscus's essential cushioning and load-distribution function
- →Reduces chronic knee pain caused by meniscus absence
- →Protects remaining cartilage from accelerated wear
- →Delays or reduces the risk of requiring knee replacement surgery
- →Allows younger, active patients to maintain a more active lifestyle
- →Physio-guided recovery supports long-term joint health
“Meniscus transplantation is a highly specialised procedure, but for the right patient — typically a younger individual with significant meniscus loss — it can be transformative. Restoring the meniscus protects the cartilage and significantly extends the long-term health of the knee.”
— 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.