Meniscectomy vs Meniscus Repair Surgery: Which One Should You Choose?
Knee injuries can be excruciatingly painful and debilitating, and one of the most common knee injuries is a torn meniscus. The meniscus is a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions the knee joint and helps distribute weight evenly across the joint. When it tears, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
In some cases, surgery may be required to repair or remove the damaged meniscus. There are two main types of surgery for a torn meniscus: meniscectomy and meniscus repair. In this blog, we will explore the differences between these two procedures and explain why meniscectomy surgery should be avoided whenever possible.
Meniscectomy vs Meniscus Repair Surgery:
Meniscectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing part or all of the damaged meniscus. It is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure that is often performed on an outpatient basis. Meniscus repair surgery, on the other hand, is a more complex procedure that involves stitching the torn meniscus back together.
Meniscectomy surgery is often recommended for older patients or those with degenerative knee conditions where the meniscus has little chance of healing. However, in younger patients with a healthy knee, meniscus repair surgery is preferred as it preserves the meniscus and reduces the risk of future knee problems.
Why you shouldn’t go for meniscectomy surgery:
While meniscectomy surgery may seem like a quick fix for a torn meniscus, it should be avoided whenever possible. The reason is that removing part or all of the meniscus can increase the risk of future knee problems, including arthritis, and a higher likelihood of requiring knee replacement surgery in the future.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients who underwent meniscectomy surgery had a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee than those who underwent meniscus repair surgery. Additionally, a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that patients who underwent meniscectomy surgery were more likely to require knee replacement surgery within 10 years.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, meniscectomy and meniscus repair surgery are two options for treating a torn meniscus. While meniscectomy may seem like a quick and easy solution, it should be avoided whenever possible, as it can lead to long-term knee problems. Meniscus repair surgery should be preferred, especially in younger patients with a healthy knee, as it preserves the meniscus and reduces the risk of future knee problems.
What to Do if You Suspect a knee Injury
If you suspect you have a knee injury, it is important to see an orthopedic specialist like Dr. Reetadyuti Mukhopadhyay, a top ACL surgeon in Delhi NCR, as soon as possible.
Dr. Mukhopadhyay will perform a physical exam and imaging tests to determine the extent of the injury and the best course of treatment.
Schedule an appointment by calling or submitting a request using Dr. Mukhopadhyay’s team’s online contact form.
In conclusion, understanding the symptoms and treatment options for knee injuries can help you take the necessary steps toward recovery. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you suspect you have an injury, and trust the expertise of a top orthopedic specialist like Dr. Mukhopadhyay to get you back to the sports you love.