What is the Meniscus?
The meniscus is a C‑shaped piece of strong, rubbery cartilage found inside each knee. You have two menisci per knee—one on the inside (medial) and one on the outside (lateral). Their main job is to act as shock absorbers, help stabilise the knee, and protect the joint surfaces from wear and tear. Because certain parts of the meniscus have very little blood supply, some tears cannot heal on their own.
Why Might You Need Surgical Repair?
A meniscus tear can occur through sudden twisting injuries, sports, squatting, or degeneration over time. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, clicking, locking, or a sense that the knee may “give way.” Surgical repair is considered when:
• The tear is in a region with good blood supply.
• Symptoms persist despite rest, physiotherapy, and conservative care.
• The tear causes mechanical problems such as catching or locking.
• Preserving the meniscus is important to maintain long‑term knee health and reduce the risk of arthritis.
What Does the Surgical Repair Involve?
Most meniscus repairs are performed arthroscopically (keyhole surgery). Small incisions are made, and specialised tools are used to repair the tear with sutures or anchors. This approach preserves as much of the meniscus as possible while restoring structure and function.
Surgical repair involves carefully preparing the torn edges to encourage healing and placing secure stitches that hold the tissue in its natural position. In some cases, biological augmentation—such as needling or applying growth-stimulating techniques—is used to improve the meniscus’s ability to heal.
Recovery – What to Expect?
Recovery typically includes:
• Protected weight‑bearing on crutches for a period recommended by your surgeon.
• A knee brace to control movement and protect the repair.
• Structured physiotherapy to restore range of motion, strength, and normal movement.
• A gradual return to sport or high‑impact activities, usually between 3–6 months depending on the repair.
Benefits of Having the Surgery
• Reduced pain and improved knee function.
• Better joint stability, especially during movement or sport.
• Protection of long‑term knee health by preserving meniscal tissue.
• Improved ability to return to normal activities, work, and athletics.
• Lower risk of future cartilage damage or early-onset arthritis by restoring normal load distribution in the knee.
• Enhanced mobility and range of motion as swelling and mechanical symptoms resolve.
• Prevention of knee locking, catching, or giving-way sensations that interfere with daily activities.
• Greater confidence in knee performance, supporting a safer return to sport or fitness training.
Is Meniscus Repair Right for You?
The suitability of surgery depends on the type and location of the tear, your age, activity level, and overall knee condition. Early assessment gives the best chance of planning the correct intervention and successful recovery.
How Our Cape Town Practice Can Help
We provide comprehensive assessment, high‑quality arthroscopic surgery, and personalised rehabilitation planning. From diagnosis through recovery, we ensure you have the support and guidance needed to return to full activity confidently and safely.
