Meniscus Repair and Meniscectomy are surgical procedures performed to treat a torn meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage structure located in the knee joint, and it acts as a cushion and a stabilizer for the knee. A torn meniscus is a common knee injury, often resulting from activities that involve twisting or excessive force on the knee joint.

Meniscus Repair: In this procedure, the surgeon attempts to repair the torn meniscus and preserve as much of the healthy tissue as possible. Meniscus repair is typically recommended for younger individuals, those with healthy meniscus tissue, and tears in the red-red or red-white zones of the meniscus. The red-red zone has the best blood supply and is more likely to heal. The surgeon will use sutures or other fixation devices to sew the torn edges of the meniscus back together.

Meniscectomy: In some cases, the meniscus tear may be too large, located in a part of the meniscus with poor blood supply (e.g., white-white zone), or the tissue may be too damaged for repair. In such cases, a partial or total meniscectomy may be performed. During a meniscectomy, the surgeon removes the torn or damaged portion of the meniscus.

The choice between a meniscus repair and a meniscectomy depends on the specific characteristics of the tear and the patient's age, activity level, and overall health.

The procedures generally involve the following steps:

Anaesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia to keep the patient pain-free and comfortable during the procedure.

Arthroscopy: A small incision is made near the knee, and an arthroscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) is inserted to allow the surgeon to visualize the inside of the knee joint.

Repair: If a meniscus repair is possible, the surgeon will use small instruments and sutures to rejoin the torn edges of the meniscus. Sometimes, fixation devices, like screws or anchors, are used to secure the meniscus in place.

Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or sterile strips, and a sterile dressing or bandage is applied.

Recovery from meniscus repair surgery varies depending on the extent of the repair and the patient's overall health. It typically involves a period of rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to normal activities and sports. Recovery may take several weeks to several months, and the success of the repair can vary, with some patients experiencing a full return to function and others experiencing ongoing symptoms.