Meniscectomy—an Orthopedic Knee Surgery Performed in Freehold and Monroe Township, NJ

A meniscectomy is a type of orthopedic knee surgery that may be considered to repair a torn meniscus, a common injury that usually results from a forceful twist of the knee. The meniscus is a thick pad of cartilage that serves as a shock-absorbing joint cushion, helping to stabilize the knee during movement. In addition to causing pain, a torn meniscus can interfere with knee range of motion.

With a goal to relieve pain and improve mobility, a meniscectomy involves the surgical removal of all or a portion of the damaged knee cartilage. With that said, surgery is not necessary in all cases. A relatively small meniscus tear may respond well to conservative treatments, such as rest, ice applications, physical therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Should I Consider a Meniscectomy?

A surgical repair may be appropriate to address a moderate to large tear on the outer edge of the meniscus. Some common signs that a meniscectomy should be considered for a torn meniscus include:

• Chronic knee swelling
• Difficulty bending or straightening the knee (a “locked” knee)
• Knee pain that interferes with daily activities

What Does a Meniscectomy Involve?

There are two main types of meniscectomies: minimally invasive knee arthroscopy and traditional open knee surgery. To determine which technique is most appropriate, a surgeon will assess a number of factors, including the size and location of the tear. When performing an arthroscopic meniscectomy, a surgeon inserts a tiny fiber-optic camera and specialized surgical tools into the knee joint via small incisions. The camera streams real-time video to a monitor in the operating room, and the surgeon utilizes this highly detailed video guidance to visualize the damaged meniscus and make surgical repairs as necessary.

If you’re considering a meniscectomy to address a torn meniscus, it is imperative to consult with an experienced knee specialist prior to making any final decisions. At Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI), we have an experienced team of board-certified, fellowship-trained knee surgeons who specialize in performing meniscectomies and other orthopedic knee surgeries to address meniscus tears and other sports-related injuries. Contact us to request an appointment at our state-of-the-art facility in Freehold or Monroe Township, NJ, where you can learn more about your treatment options.