Meniscus Surgery: Should I Choose Repair or Partial Removal? Looking for Guidance
Hello everyone! I’m reaching out for some guidance or perhaps to hear similar experiences that might help me navigate my situation. I'm feeling quite overwhelmed, so any insights would be appreciated. **Background:** - I’m a 24-year-old female who had a fall over a year ago, landing hard on my knee. Though it swelled for a few days, I managed to walk after about a week. Shortly thereafter, I started experiencing intermittent pain. Since I'm already undergoing physical therapy for another issue, my therapist suggested we address the knee pain as well. Unfortunately, every attempt we made seemed to exacerbate the discomfort. Recently, I underwent an MRI, and the findings were as follows: - **Medial Meniscus Concerns:** The scan revealed a tear on the inner section of my knee, specifically on the underside of the meniscus root; fortunately, the root itself remains intact. Additionally, there’s a smaller tear further along the body of the meniscus, which is less severe. - **Overall Condition of the Knee:** There’s a minor accumulation of fluid in the knee, but everything else—such as ligaments and cartilage—appears to be in good shape for someone my age, with no other serious issues noted. **Recommendations Given:** - During my visit with a physician assistant (PA) who reviewed the MRI together with the surgeon, the consensus was to consider removal of the damaged meniscus portion. **Partial Removal Versus Repair:** - Being young, I understand that cartilage doesn’t regenerate itself, so I inquired about the possibility of a repair instead. I expressed my concerns about the long-term implications, such as the risk of developing arthritis or osteoporosis later in life. - The PA mentioned that if necessary, the surgeon could classify the surgery as a repair, but they expected it would likely just involve cleaning out the area. Their rationale was that due to the size of the tear, a repair might not be warranted. They cited a prior case of a patient with a much larger tear who required surgical intervention on that basis. **Seeking Advice:** - Is it unusual to consider surgical repair for a smaller tear? I felt a bit brushed aside during the consultation, and in the moment, overwhelmed, I merely nodded in agreement without fully processing the information. I'm definitely planning to seek a second opinion, but I would love to hear any advice or thoughts on the matter. I could provide more details if necessary, but I’ve tried to keep this concise. Please let me know if you need any further information to offer guidance. **Summary:** I have two small meniscus tears suggested for surgery, but my doctor indicated that the procedure would likely be purely for cleaning purposes since the root is unharmed. I am concerned that removing cartilage may result in negative outcomes in the future. They mentioned that a repair could be performed if deemed necessary once they assess the situation during surgery, but it’s mostly anticipated to just be a clean-up. Now, I’m wondering if repairing a small tear is common practice and what steps I should take from here. Thank you! :)
Answers (1)
8/30/2025, 3:04:14 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed when faced with decisions about knee surgery, especially concerning your young age and the potential long-term effects on joint health. You have a couple of options regarding your meniscus tears, and it's wise that you’re seeking to understand them better.
Main Points:
- Tear Types and Surgical Options: You have two small meniscus tears, and the proposed treatment hinges on whether to repair or remove the damaged tissue.
- Concerns and Considerations: It's valid to worry about future complications such as arthritis, especially given your age and activity level.
Explanation:
- Meniscus Tears: The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage in your knee that helps with shock absorption and joint stability. Tears can vary in size and location, impacting treatment options.
- Repair vs. Removal:
- Repair: If a tear can be repaired, it might provide better long-term outcomes by preserving the meniscus. However, the feasibility depends on factors like the tear's size, location, and health of surrounding tissues.
- Partial Removal (Meniscectomy): This is often done when the tear is not conducive to repair or is causing significant symptoms. While it may alleviate immediate pain, it can potentially increase your risk of degenerative changes in the knee over time.
Next Steps:
-
Seek a Second Opinion: This is a crucial step. Consult with another orthopedic surgeon, ideally one specializing in sports medicine or young patients. This can provide you with a broader view on what's possible regarding your meniscus.
-
Discuss Options: When discussing with the second surgeon, ask specific questions:
- What are the long-term implications of both repair and partial removal?
- Is there a chance that the smaller tear can be repaired, even if it's not the standard approach?
- What are the expected outcomes of both procedures based on the type of tear and your activity level?
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Consider Conservative Treatments: While awaiting your second opinion, continue your physical therapy focused on strengthening surrounding muscles and improving knee stability. Sometimes conservative measures can improve symptoms and delay or avoid surgery.
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Educate Yourself: Use reputable resources to read about meniscus tears and treatments. Understanding the science behind the procedures can empower you when discussing options with your healthcare providers.
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Reflect on Your Activity Level: Consider your goals post-surgery—you may want to return to sports or high-impact activities. Communicating these intentions to your surgeon can influence the recommended treatment plan.
By taking these steps, you will be more equipped to make an informed decision regarding your knee treatment. Remember, it's important to feel comfortable and confident in the plan you choose. Let me know if you need any further information or support!
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