Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

I'm 55 years old and have the start of a meniscal tear in my left knee. The surgeon is going to do arthroscopic surgery to shave off the torn edge. I thought the new direction with meniscal tears is to repair them, not remove them.

You are right but only some patients are candidates for the repair-versus-remove option. Studies show that the long-term result of complete meniscectomy is osteoarthritis of the joint.

Without the cartilage to act as a shock absorber and protector of the joint, degenerative changes speed up. That's why surgeons are trying to repair the torn meniscus instead of taking it out.

Meniscal tears are more likely to be repaired when healing can occur after surgery. The tear must be located in an area that has good blood flow. Most of the meniscus doesn't have a blood supply. Only the outer one-third edge of the meniscus is in a zone that has blood vessels.

Small tears in this area are the most likely to heal after surgical repair. The damage must be fairly minimal without degenerative changes. Usually the torn meniscus has occurred as a result of trauma in a young patient.

Middle-aged adults are more likely to have meniscal changes and tears because of the aging process. Degenerative changes of this kind are removed as you described. The surgeon will still preserve as much of the remaining healthy tissue as possible to prevent further changes in the joint.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.