Knee Surgery for Torn Meniscus

Knee Surgery for a Torn Meniscus: What You Should Know

By Dr. Devasis Sarangi, Orthopedic Specialist

What Is a Meniscus Tear?

The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage in the knee joint that acts as a cushion between the femur and tibia. Tears can happen due to trauma or degeneration. Trauma-related tears are common in younger, active individuals, while degenerative tears often occur in older adults and are more frayed and complex.

Common Symptoms:

  • Knee pain, especially along the joint line
  • Swelling and stiffness
  • Clicking, catching, or locking sensations

When Is Surgery a Good Option?

Non-surgical treatments like RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy often suffice for stable tears.
However, surgery is advised when:

  • Symptoms persist or mechanical issues (locking/catching) occur
  • The tear is in the well-vascularized outer third ("red zone") where it can heal with repair.
  • The tear is large, displaced, or causing instability

Types of Meniscus Surgery:

1. Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair

Sutures are placed to anchor the torn tissue for natural healing—optimal in younger patients with tears in the red zone.
✓ Preserves most of the meniscus
✓ Longer rehab (3–6 months)
✓ Ideal for stable tears in healthy tissue

2. Partial Meniscectomy

Removal of torn or damaged tissue using minimally invasive arthroscopy.
✓ Faster recovery (weeks to months)
✓ May lead to accelerated knee wear long-term

3. Meniscus Transplant

In advanced cases where most of the meniscus is removed, donor meniscus transplant may be considered.

Rehab & Recovery:

  • Meniscectomy: Light activities begin within days; return to normal movement in 2–3 months.
  • Repair/Transplant: Requires bracing, limited weight-bearing, and physical therapy over 4–6 months.

A phased rehab helps restore:

  • Motion & pain control
  • Strength & stability
  • Functional and sport-specific performance

Success Rates & Outlook:

  • Repair: High success if tear location and tissue health are favorable 
  • Meniscectomy: 90% good short-term results, though arthritis risk increases long-term 
  • Transplant: Around 90% survival over 4–5 years in younger patients 

What To Expect in Your Consultation:

During your visit, Dr. Sarangi will:

  • Review your history and symptoms
  • Conduct physical exams (e.g., McMurray, Apley tests)
  • Recommend imaging (MRI)
  • Discuss surgical vs conservative options
  • Tailor the plan to your age, activity level, and anatomy

Surgery Isn’t Always Mandatory:

Older patients with degenerative tears and no mechanical symptoms often improve with conservative care—surgery may offer no additional benefit in many cases .

Final Words:

If you're facing persistent knee pain, catching, or mobility issues, a torn meniscus might be the culprit. At Dr. Devasis Sarangi’s clinic, our goal is to preserve your natural knee structure and function using:

  • Minimally invasive arthroscopy
  • Personalized surgery (repair, partial removal, or transplant)
  • Thoughtful, guided rehabilitation

Feel free to reach out for an evaluation to discuss your treatment options and the best path forward.