Meniscus Tears- AANA

Meniscus Tears

The menisci are small, shock-absorbing cartilage discs within the knee joint. Meniscus tears can occur with planting and twisting injuries or develop gradually with wear and tear over time. Meniscus tears typically cause knee pain and instability.

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What is a Meniscus Tear?

Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

The menisci play an important role in supporting the knee joint for pain-free motion. Meniscus tears can cause knee pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, and even locking of the knee joint that can make everyday activities uncomfortable.

Meniscus Tears: Overview
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Meniscus Tear Treatment

With and Without Surgery

Treatment for a meniscus tear will depend on the severity and location of the tear. Some areas of the meniscus can heal with rest and physical therapy. Other areas are much slower to heal and may require surgery to treat a meniscus tear.

Meniscus Tears: Treatment Options
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Meniscus Tear Surgery

Surgical Animations

Different types of surgery are available to treat meniscus tears. A meniscectomy can be used to trim off a portion of the torn meniscus, or a meniscus repair can be performed to stitch the torn meniscus back together.

Meniscus Tears: All-Inside Meniscus Repair Animation
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Meniscus Tears: Meniscal Root Repair Animation
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Meniscus Tear Surgery

Surgical Demonstrations

Surgery for a meniscus tear is performed using knee arthroscopy. This minimally invasive technique uses small incisions, a camera, and small instruments to trim or repair the torn meniscus. Newer techniques for meniscus repair leave behind small suture implants to help hold the meniscus in place while healing.