|
|
||||
 | ||||
|
 |
MeniscectomyDefinitionMeniscus is cartilage in the knee joint. It helps to stabilize and cushion the knee. A meniscectomy is the removal of all or part of the cartilage. Arthroscopic Meniscectomy  © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. Reasons for ProcedureA meniscectomy is done when the cartilage is damaged and is causing pain or problems with knee motion. Possible ComplicationsComplications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a meniscectomy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureYour doctor may do the following:
Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure, like:
Do not eat or drink anything for 8-12 hours before surgery, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. AnesthesiaLocal, spinal, or general anesthesia will be used depending on the procedure. With local anesthesia, the area around the surgery will be numbed. With spinal anesthesia, your lower body will be numbed from an injection into the back. With general anesthesia, you will be asleep. Description of the ProcedureThere are two methods for meniscectomy:
ArthroscopySmall incisions are made around the knee. Special tools are inserted into the knee joint. A tiny camera will provide a view of the inside of the knee. The damaged meniscus is either repaired or removed. The doctor will remove as little cartilage as possible. A drain may be inserted to drain away fluid. The incisions are closed with stitches. The stitches are usually removed in the doctor's office one week later. Open Meniscectomy/ArthrotomyA larger incision is made over the knee joint. The meniscus is then either repaired or removed. The incision is closed with stitches. It usually results in a longer recovery period. This process is usually done when there are problems with the knee that make the arthroscopic procedure difficult. How Long Will It Take?The procedure usually takes less than one hour. How Much Will It Hurt?Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Medicine will help you manage pain during recovery. Post-procedure Care
If the meniscus was removed, it generally takes 3-6 weeks to return to full activities. If the cartilage was repaired, it can take up to four months for full recovery. The goal of the first week is to reduce pain and swelling. After this, the goals are to increase range of motion and weight-bearing. Physical therapy is often done several times a week for four weeks or more. At 6-8 weeks, low impact activities can often be added. This will help to prepare you to return to sports or activities. Running, cutting, and rotation are avoided for at least 16 weeks. Call Your DoctorAfter arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
RESOURCES: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons National Library of Medicine CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canada Health Network Physical Therapy Canada References: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.aaos.org . Lento P, Akuthota V. Frontera: Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation . 1st ed. Philadelphia; Hanley and Belfus; 2002. Last reviewed November 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
|
||
 |
||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
