A meniscal tear is a common sports injury that causes debilitating and physically limiting knee pain. It can be caused by sudden twisting or rotation of the knee during activities. Arthroscopy has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of meniscal tears. The procedure allows minimally invasive techniques for meniscal tear treatment to be used, which benefits the patient.
Let’s explore arthroscopy as an innovative tool for diagnosing and treating meniscal tears, highlighting its uses and advantages.
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for visualizing, diagnosing, and treating joint problems, including meniscal tears.
During arthroscopy, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the joint through tiny incisions. This camera provides a clear view of the joint’s interior on a monitor, allowing the orthopedic surgeon to assess the extent of the injury and perform precise surgical interventions.
How is Arthroscopy Performed in Meniscal Tear Treatment?
Patients with larger tears on the outer and inner portions of the meniscus or tears that do not heal may require arthroscopic repair. Arthroscopy is typically performed under local or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
After making small incisions around the knee joint, the arthroscope is inserted to examine the meniscus and surrounding structures. Specialized surgical instruments are then used to trim or remove the damaged segment of the tissue. The entire procedure is guided by real-time imaging.
Advantages of Arthroscopy
There are many advantages provided by arthroscopy compared to traditional methods, which entail larger incisions and the removal of the meniscus.
- Minimally Invasive Approach – Arthroscopic surgery involves small incisions and the use of a tiny camera to visualize the internal structures of the knee joint. This minimally invasive approach reduces tissue trauma, post-operative pain, and scarring and promotes faster healing compared to traditional open surgeries.
- Preserves Tissue – By utilizing arthroscopic techniques, surgeons can preserve as much healthy meniscal tissue as possible during repair procedures. Preserving the meniscus helps maintain joint stability and shock absorption and reduces the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the long term.
- Greater Precision and Enhancement – Arthroscopy enables surgeons to have a clear, magnified view of the meniscus and surrounding structures within the knee joint. This enhanced visualization allows for precise identification, assessment, and repair of meniscal tears, leading to improved surgical accuracy and outcomes.
- Customization Treatment Options – Arthroscopic surgery offers the flexibility to tailor treatment strategies based on the type, location, and complexity of the meniscal tear. Surgeons can choose from a variety of repair techniques, such as meniscal suturing, partial meniscectomy, or meniscal preservation, depending on the individual patient’s needs.
- Faster Recovery Time – Due to the minimally invasive nature of arthroscopic procedures, patients undergoing meniscal tear repair experience shorter recovery times, reduced post-operative pain, and quicker return to daily activities, work, and sports participation. The less invasive approach contributes to improved patient satisfaction and overall recovery outcomes.
- Reduced Risk of Complications – Arthroscopic meniscal tear repair is associated with lower rates of complications, infections, and blood loss compared to open surgeries. This reduced risk enhances patient safety, minimizes hospital stays, and promotes a smoother recovery process following the procedure.
- Improved Functional Outcomes – Studies have shown that arthroscopic meniscal tear repair results in improved functional outcomes, pain relief, and long-term joint health compared to non-surgical management or older surgical techniques. Patients often report better knee function and quality of life after undergoing arthroscopic repair.
After Arthroscopic Repair of Meniscal Tissue
After arthroscopic repair of meniscal tissue, patients typically undergo a structured rehabilitation program to facilitate healing and restore knee function. Crutches or a brace are usually needed to offload weight from the knee joint.
Soon the gradual introduction of gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness will begin. Early exercises are controlled weight-bearing exercises that will eventually lead to more dynamic and high-impact activities.
Meniscal Tear Treatment in San Antonio, TX
Seeing an orthopedic doctor for meniscal tear treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and facilitate a faster and more complete recovery.
The talented team of orthopedic doctors at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine are skilled in the advanced treatment of meniscal tears. Our providers are trained in sports medicine and can quickly diagnose and start treatment for athletes and active individuals.
Find out what treatment approach our orthopedic doctors will recommend to you. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (210) 692-7400 or use our convenient appointment request form.
We look forward to serving your orthopedic needs!
