Meniscus Injuries

Menisci are tough and elastic tissues found in the knee joint, aiding in joint movements and sharing the loads applied to the knee joint along with bone and cartilage. In each knee joint, there are two meniscus tissues: one on the inner side and one on the outer side. The outer part of the meniscus, closer to the skin, is supplied with blood vessels, but the central area lacks blood vessels and is nourished by synovial fluid. This fact affects the treatment approach for tears in the meniscus.

How do tears occur?

Meniscus tears typically occur in young individuals due to activities such as sports, heavy lifting, or sudden movements. In older individuals, tears in the meniscus are often related to wear and tear of the meniscus tissue. When a meniscus tear occurs, symptoms such as knee pain, limited range of motion, swelling, catching, and locking may develop. Especially in younger age groups, mechanical symptoms (such as catching and locking) are more prominent. A torn meniscus can get trapped in the joint space and lock the knee, preventing full extension and limiting flexion. In older individuals, tears are often associated with a generalized pain that worsens during movement.

How is a meniscus tear diagnosed?

The diagnosis of meniscus tears is typically based on the patient’s history, the nature of the pain and symptoms, and a detailed physical examination. X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can assist in the diagnosis.

How is a meniscus tear treated?

Once the diagnosis is made, treatment is based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms and how the condition affects their daily life. Except for urgent cases (such as the knee joint getting locked and immovable), initial treatment often includes pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, rest, exercise, cold applications, and activity modification. If these treatments are not successful, especially in young patients, surgical treatment may be necessary. In today’s medical practice, surgery is often performed arthroscopically, with the inside of the knee joint visualized through a camera. This allows for confirmation of the diagnosis, identification of any additional problems, and simultaneous treatment. The goal is to remove the torn portion while preserving as much healthy meniscus tissue as possible or repairing the tear if it is suitable for stitching. In older patients, the presence of other issues accompanying the meniscus tear (e.g., cartilage damage or osteoarthritis) will guide treatment planning. If only a meniscus tear is present, arthroscopic surgery can still be considered.

What is the recovery process after meniscus surgery?

When surgical treatment is performed using an arthroscopic method, the postoperative period is generally more comfortable compared to open surgeries. There is less pain, and mobility is increased. If only a meniscus tear is removed during surgery, weight-bearing on the operated leg is possible after the procedure. Patients are usually discharged from the hospital the day after the surgery. The knee is typically wrapped in an elastic bandage, and at home, patients continue to apply ice, use simple pain relievers, and perform prescribed exercises. Resting at home for a short period is usually sufficient. If a meniscus tear has been repaired with stitches, weight-bearing on the operated leg is avoided for a certain period (usually 2-4 weeks), and crutches are used. The postoperative period may vary depending on the additional issues present during the surgery (e.g., anterior cruciate ligament tear or cartilage problems).