Injuries to the meniscus cartilage of the knee are among the most common injuries encountered in sports. Many athletes, especially runners and those in contact sports, are highly susceptible to tears. However, individuals at any age can experience tearing of the meniscus. Tears can be acute and traumatic, involving injury, or chronic and degenerative in nature. When the meniscus is degenerated over time, everyday activities such as slight pivoting or squatting can cause a tear. Dr. Austin Chen, specializes in serving the people of the Boulder, Colorado communities who are dealing with meniscus tears. The outside one third of the meniscus has a rich blood supply, which is called the “red” zone, and the inner two thirds lacks a blood supply, which is called the “white” zone. The red zone may heal on its own, while a tear in the white zone may require surgery or other forms of treatment since the pieces cannot grow back together.
There are different types of meniscus tears with the pattern determining the correct treatment. Dr. Austin Chen will review the individual case and offer the best solution for that particular situation. In some cases, Dr. Austin Chen may suggest a meniscus repair or partial meniscectomy to repair damaged or torn cartilage.
What is meniscus repair and partial meniscectomy?
The choice of type of surgery is based on the size and location of the tear. Age, activity level and goal for recovery also play a role. Dr. Austin Chen performs meniscus repairs using an arthroscopic technique in order to both examine and repair the inside of the joint. This is a minimally invasive surgery where he uses a tiny camera and surgical tools inserted through small incisions near the joint. Arthroscopic surgery may limit knee damage and expedite healing time. In a meniscus repair surgery the tear can be repaired by stitching the torn piece together. In a partial meniscectomy, Dr. Chen will remove as little of the meniscus as possible. Unstable and damaged meniscal fragments are trimmed away so that there are no frayed ends.
What is the recovery from a meniscus repair and partial meniscectomy surgery?
After surgery you may have to wear a brace or cast to keep the knee stable. You’ll likely also have to use crutches for at least a month to keep weight off your knee. Dr. Austin Chen will send the patient home with a physical therapy regime to help restore strength and mobility. Physical therapy can be completed through the Boulder Centre for Orthopedics Physical Therapy Center, which offers all patients complete and seamless recovery care.If you have a partial or total meniscectomy, you can expect recovery to take about a month. If the meniscus was repaired, it may take as long as 3 months.
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