Partial Meniscectomy
The menisci, crucial components of the knee joint, consist of fibrocartilage and serve as effective shock absorbers. Their structure exhibits an interesting characteristic: the outer third of the meniscus is supplied with blood, while the inner portion lacks this vital supply. Moreover, the inner part is notably thinner than the thicker outer region, which is firmly attached to the joint lining. Consequently, when tears occur in the inner, avascular portion of the meniscus, they typically necessitate resection. In such cases, a surgical procedure known as partial meniscectomy becomes essential to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by the torn segment.
Description of Partial Meniscectomy
Partial meniscectomy, a specialized surgery procedure, is conducted using arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique. In this process, the torn portion of the meniscus is meticulously removed with the aim of preserving and shaping the remaining meniscus. This approach seeks to retain as much of the shock-absorbing capacity of the meniscus as possible while also minimizing the risk of re-tearing.
The surgical procedure involves creating two small incisions on either side of the patellar tendon. One incision is designated for the arthroscopic camera, while the other is used for the arthroscopic instruments. The torn meniscus is carefully trimmed down and contoured to resemble a saucer shape. This meticulous technique not only eliminates any jagged edges that might catch within the joint and cause further discomfort but also strives to conserve as much of the meniscus as feasible.
Post-Operative Protocol for Partial Meniscectomy
After a partial meniscectomy procedure, we typically allow patients to bear weight as tolerated, initially utilizing crutches for the first week, and then gradually transitioning to full weight-bearing over the following weeks.
Looking ahead, it's advisable for patients to steer clear of activities that trigger pain or swelling following the surgery. It's important to note that the discomfort experienced by most patients post-partial meniscectomy doesn't stem from a recurring meniscus tear. Instead, it often results from the onset of arthritis due to the reduced cushioning provided by the meniscus.
Consequently, we recommend engaging in low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and using an elliptical machine. However, it's crucial to exercise caution when considering high-impact activities like running, basketball, or racquetball to prevent the development of pain or swelling during these endeavors. Looking ahead, it's advisable for patients to steer clear of activities that trigger pain or swelling following the surgery. It's important to note that the discomfort experienced by most patients post-partial meniscectomy doesn't stem from a recurring meniscus tear. Instead, it often results from the onset of arthritis due to the reduced cushioning provided by the meniscus. Consequently, we recommend engaging in low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and using an elliptical machine. However, it's crucial to exercise caution when considering high-impact activities like running, basketball, or racquetball to prevent the development of pain or swelling during these endeavors.
