Meniscal Surgery

Surgery to the “Footballer’s” or “Sportsman’s” Cartilage

The meniscus is a structure within the knee that works as a shock absorber and contributes to the stability of the knee. There are 2 menisci in either knee – one on the inner side and one on the outer. They serve an important role in improving knee function. A tear of the meniscus can occur either as a result of degeneration (wear and tear) that makes it less pliable or when the knee is injured – normally in a twisting type injury.

When torn, the meniscus can cause serious problems within the knee joint: jamming or locking; giving way or a sensation that the knee cannot be trusted; pain and swelling. If an arthroscopy is recommended then the surgeon has the opportunity to assess the tear and decide whether the tear can be repaired or trimmed back to healthy tissue. Tears that cannot be repaired need to be trimmed back to a stable edge. Only as much tissue as is necessary is removed as the remainder of the meniscus has an important role in reducing the contact pressure in the knee joint.

The images below are of healthy meniscal cartilages being gently assessed for damage.