SPORTS PROCEDURES

Knee meniscus repair & debridement

The menisci are small, C-shaped pieces of cartilage on either side of the knee that help distribute body weight across the knee and provide stability for the knee joint. Forcefully twisting or rotating the knee during a traumatic injury or degenerative conditions are the top causes for a torn meniscus. A meniscus tear typically requires treatment with arthroscopic surgery. Two procedures can be done to treat a meniscus tear, one being a repair and the other being a debridement procedure. Which of the two is needed will be decided once Dr Bismilla can view the condition of the meniscus using an arthroscope.

What would surgery entail?

Both surgeries would be done arthroscopically, meaning an arthroscope fitted with a camera is inserted through tiny puncture-like incisions. This camera provides Dr Bismilla with an internal view of the meniscus so that he may see which of the two surgeries is better suited. From here, tiny arthroscopic tools can be used to perform either operation. This decision for which of the two surgeries would be better will be based on the condition of the meniscus as well as personal factors including age, level of physical activity and health risks.

Meniscus repair

During a meniscus repair, the two ends of the torn meniscus are sewn together, allowing the cartilage to heal properly. Whether or not this surgery can be successful or not will depend on the amount of blood supply available to the cartilage.

Meniscus debridement

A meniscus debridement is also done arthroscopically by removing the torn section of cartilage, leaving the healthy piece of cartilage in its place.

What can I expect after surgery?

Depending on which surgery was performed, recovery will differ. With his experience and expertise in knee surgery, Dr Bismilla aims to reduce the risk of future arthritis and enhance healing and thus will be able to choose the best possible option for meniscus tear treatment. Recovery from a meniscus repair generally takes a bit longer than that of a meniscus debridement. After about 4 to 6 weeks, you will be advised to begin certain exercises with the help of a physiotherapist to regain the strength and functioning of the knee joint. After this, you will be able to resume physical activities and sports..