Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to repair a torn meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that cushions the joint between the femur and tibia. A tear causes pain, swelling and instability. Surgery stitches the tear back together…
Overview of the procedure
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure to repair a torn meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that cushions the joint between the femur and tibia. A tear causes pain, swelling and instability. Surgery stitches the tear back together to restore knee function.
Common reasons
Tears most often occur during sports that involve sudden twisting or pivoting of the knee. Degenerative tears can also develop gradually with age, particularly in people over 40.
When is a procedure or surgery needed
Surgery may be recommended if the tear is large, in the outer zone of the meniscus with good blood supply, or if conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, rest and pain relief have not resolved symptoms.
Procedure Details
Instructions before the procedure
- Do not eat or drink for 6–8 hours before surgery
- Inform your doctor about all medications and allergies
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you for the first few days
Step-by-step overview (non-technical)
- Anaesthesia is administered
- Small incisions (portals) are made around the knee
- A tiny camera (arthroscope) is inserted to view the joint
- The torn edges of the meniscus are prepared and trimmed
- Sutures are passed through the meniscus to hold the tear together
- The stitches are secured to allow healing
- Incisions are closed, a bandage applied and a brace fitted if needed
Type of anaesthesia
- General or spinal anaesthesia
Duration
- Approximately 45 minutes to 1½ hours
Risks & Complications
- Infection, blood clots, stiffness or failure of the repair to heal
- Re-tear, nerve or blood vessel injury, and chronic knee pain
Benefits & Outcomes
Expected results
- Reduced knee pain and swelling
- Restored stability and improved range of movement
- Protection of joint cartilage and reduced risk of arthritis
How does it improve the quality of life
- Return to daily activities and sports without knee pain
During Hospital Stay
Instructions on the day of the procedure
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing and remove jewellery
- Arrive early for pre-operative checks
Post-procedure monitoring
- Blood pressure, oxygen levels and circulation in the leg are monitored
- Ice packs and elevation are used to control swelling
- Pain relief medicines are provided and crutches fitted before discharge
Recovery & Aftercare
Hospital stay
Most patients go home the same day or after one night.
Recovery timeline
Most patients recover well after surgery and return to normal activities without losing movement. Healing time depends on the type of surgery, usually taking a few weeks for light tasks. Complete recovery may take up to 6 months or longer after meniscus repair or transplant.
Activity restrictions
- Avoid bearing full weight on the knee until cleared by your surgeon
- No twisting, squatting or running until advised
- Avoid driving until knee strength and control have recovered
Wound care/precautions
- Keep the wound clean and dry; avoid swimming or bathing until stitches are removed
- Use ice packs wrapped in a cloth for 15–20 minutes several times a day
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain a healthy weight and strengthen the thigh and hip muscles through regular low-impact exercise
- Warm up properly before physical activity and use the correct technique to protect the knee
When to Contact a Doctor
Red flag symptoms
- Fever, increasing redness, warmth or discharge from the wound
- Sudden severe knee pain or significant swelling
- Numbness, tingling or coldness in the foot or lower leg
Follow-up schedule
- 1–2 weeks: Wound check and removal of stitches
- 6 weeks: Assessment of movement and brace review
- 3 months: Strength and function review
- Further visits as advised by your surgeon
Myths and Facts
A meniscus tear will always heal on its own with rest.
Full-thickness or large tears rarely heal without surgery, particularly in the inner zone with poor blood supply.
Only young athletes tear their meniscus.
Meniscus tears affect people of all ages; degenerative tears are common in adults over 40 due to wear and tear.
Surgery always means the meniscus is removed.
When possible, surgeons prefer to repair and stitch the meniscus rather than remove it, preserving long-term joint health.
Recovery from meniscus repair takes only a few weeks.
Full recovery typically takes 3–6 months, and return to sport may take up to 9 months with guided physiotherapy.
A knee brace alone is enough to treat a torn meniscus.
A brace can help with symptoms, but cannot repair the structural damage; surgery is needed for significant tears.
FAQs
Will I need physiotherapy after meniscus repair?
Yes. Physiotherapy is essential for restoring knee movement, strength and stability after surgery.
How long will I need crutches after surgery?
Most patients use crutches for 4–6 weeks, depending on the size and location of the repair.
When can I return to sport?
Return to sport typically takes 6–9 months after meniscus repair, depending on the type of tear and recovery progress.
Can the repaired meniscus tear again?
Yes. Early return to activity or heavy strain increases the risk of re-tear. Following your rehabilitation plan is important.
Is meniscus repair done as a day-case procedure?
Yes, in most cases. Patients go home the same day under general or spinal anaesthesia.
Speak to an orthopaedic specialist
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