Arthroscopy for Meniscus Tear: Complete Surgery Guide

That sudden pop during your morning run. The knee that locks up when you try to rise from a chair. The swelling that just won't settle, these are the telltale signs that something is seriously wrong inside your knee joint, and in many cases, the culprit is a torn meniscus. If your orthopaedic surgeon has recommended arthroscopy for meniscus tear, you probably have a hundred questions swirling in your head, and this guide is designed to answer every one of them.

At Sports Orthopedics Institute, Bengaluru, our specialists perform advanced arthroscopic procedures every day, helping patients, from professional athletes to weekend warriors and elderly individuals, reclaim their mobility with minimal disruption to their lives. Whether you are in HSR Layout, Koramangala, Whitefield, or anywhere across Karnataka, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Is the Meniscus and Why Does It Tear?

The knee joint contains two crescent-shaped pads of fibrocartilage called the medial meniscus (inner side) and the lateral meniscus (outer side). Think of them as shock-absorbing cushions that sit between your femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). They stabilise the knee, distribute body weight evenly, and protect the underlying articular cartilage from premature wear.

Meniscus tears are among the most common knee injuries seen in orthopaedic clinics across India. They occur due to:

• Sudden twisting or pivoting: common in football, cricket, basketball, and kabaddi

• Deep squatting or kneeling: occupational hazard for construction workers and farmers

• Age-related degeneration: cartilage weakens after the age of 40, making even trivial twists sufficient to cause a tear

• Associated ACL injuries: a torn ACL and meniscal damage frequently occur together during high-impact sports

Types of Meniscus Tears

Understanding the type of tear helps your surgeon choose the right treatment:

• Radial tear: cuts through the meniscus from inside outward; most common type

• Bucket-handle tear: a large tear that can flip into the joint and cause locking

• Horizontal tear: splits the meniscus into upper and lower halves; common in degenerative cases

• Flap tear: creates a flap of tissue that catches inside the joint

• Root tear: tears at the attachment point of the meniscus; can rapidly accelerate arthritis

Recognising the Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

Not every meniscal tear presents dramatically. Some tears are discovered incidentally during imaging for another knee complaint. However, the classic symptoms include:

• Persistent pain along the inner or outer knee line

• Swelling that develops within 24–48 hours of injury

• Stiffness and reduced range of motion

• Catching or locking sensation, the knee feels like it is stuck

• Giving way, the knee suddenly buckles under your weight

• Difficulty climbing stairs or getting up from a seated position

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to get a thorough evaluation. Our team at Sports Orthopedics Institute uses a combination of clinical examination tests (McMurray's, Thessaly, Apley's) and advanced imaging to reach an accurate diagnosis before recommending any intervention. Learn more about how we approach knee pain diagnosis and treatment.

How Is a Meniscus Tear Diagnosed?

Your orthopaedic surgeon will combine physical examination findings with imaging to confirm the diagnosis:

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): The gold standard for meniscal evaluation. An MRI is 70–90% accurate in identifying the presence and grade of a tear. It also reveals associated cartilage damage or ligament injuries.

X-Ray: Cannot visualise soft tissue like the meniscus, but is useful for ruling out bone fractures, joint space narrowing, or early osteoarthritis.

Diagnostic Arthroscopy: In select cases, the most definitive diagnosis is made by directly looking inside the joint with an arthroscope, which also allows treatment to be performed during the same session.

Grading of Meniscus Tears

• Grade 1 & 2: Signal changes within the meniscus visible on MRI but not extending to the surface, usually managed non-surgically

• Grade 3: The tear extends to the joint surface, often requires arthroscopic intervention

When Is Surgery Needed? Conservative vs. Surgical Treatment

Not every meniscus tear needs surgery. The decision depends on multiple factors including your age, activity level, tear pattern, and how much the symptoms are affecting your quality of life.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

For Grade 1 and Grade 2 tears, or stable peripheral tears in younger patients, non-surgical management is often the first approach:

• RICE Protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation during the acute phase

• NSAIDs, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling control

• Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip stabilisers to offload the meniscus

• PRP Injections: Platelet-rich plasma therapy to support biological healing in selected cases

• Activity modification, Avoiding deep squats, pivoting, and high-impact activities during recovery

When Arthroscopic Surgery Is Recommended

Surgery becomes the preferred treatment when:

• Conservative treatment has failed after 6–12 weeks

• There is a bucket-handle tear causing locking of the knee

• The tear is in a high-demand athlete who needs to return to sport

• There is an associated ACL or ligament injury requiring repair

• A root tear is present that threatens rapid joint degeneration

If your symptoms meet these criteria, consulting our orthopaedic specialists early gives you the best chance of a complete recovery.

What Is Arthroscopy for Meniscus Tear?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a thin, fibre-optic camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the knee joint through small incisions (portals) of less than 1 cm. The surgeon views a magnified, high-definition image of the interior of the joint on a screen, allowing precise diagnosis and treatment without opening the entire knee.

Arthroscopy for meniscus tear is the most common knee arthroscopic procedure performed worldwide, and at Sports Orthopedics Institute, we perform it using state-of-the-art arthroscopic towers and instruments that meet international standards.

The Procedure: Step by Step

1. Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under spinal (regional) or general anaesthesia based on patient factors and surgeon preference.

2. Positioning and Preparation: The leg is positioned and a tourniquet is applied to the upper thigh to minimise bleeding. The knee is thoroughly cleaned and draped.

3. Creating Portals: Two to three small incisions (less than 5 mm each) are made around the knee. One portal is for the arthroscope with a camera and light source; the others allow surgical instruments to pass through.

4. Joint Visualisation: The knee is distended with sterile saline solution. The surgeon systematically examines all compartments, the medial, lateral, and patellofemoral compartments, along with cruciate ligaments, cartilage surfaces, and both menisci.

5. Treatment of the Tear: Depending on the findings, the surgeon will perform one of the following:

• Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair: Torn edges are sutured together using specialised implants (all-inside devices, inside-out, or outside-in techniques). This is preferred for peripheral tears in younger patients with good blood supply.

• Partial Meniscectomy: Only the unstable, torn fragment is removed while preserving as much healthy meniscal tissue as possible. This is the most commonly performed procedure and is indicated for complex or degenerative tears where repair is not feasible.

• Total Meniscectom: Rarely performed; reserved for extensively damaged menisci with no possibility of repair.

6. Closure and Dressing: The portals are closed with a stitch or steri-strips and a compression dressing is applied. The entire procedure typically takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair vs. Partial Meniscectomy: Which Is Better for You?

This is one of the most common questions patients ask, and the answer is nuanced:

At Sports Orthopedics Institute, our philosophy is meniscus preservation first. We repair whenever the biology and tear pattern support it, because every millimetre of meniscus tissue preserved protects your knee from future arthritis.

Recovery After Arthroscopy for Meniscus Tear

Recovery timelines differ depending on whether you had a repair or a meniscectomy, but the general milestones are as follows:

After Partial Meniscectomy

• Day 0–2: Discharged the same day or next day. Ice, elevation, and pain medication. Walking with crutches initially.

• Week 1–2: Wound check, physiotherapy begins, gentle range-of-motion exercises.

• Week 3–6: Progressive strengthening, cycling, swimming.

• Week 6–12: Return to most daily activities and light sport.

After Meniscus Repair

• Week 0–6: Knee brace worn, partial weight bearing with crutches, gentle motion exercises.

• Week 6–12: Brace removed, progressive full weight bearing, strengthening begins in earnest.

• Month 3–4: Running on flat surfaces, sport-specific drills begin.

• Month 4–6: Full return to sport for most patients.

Key Elements of Rehabilitation

A successful outcome after arthroscopy for meniscus tear is equally dependent on surgery and physiotherapy. Your rehabilitation programme at Sports Orthopedics Institute typically includes:

• Quadriceps and hamstring strengthening

• Balance and proprioception training

• Gait re-education

• Sport-specific neuromuscular training

• Gradual return-to-sport protocol with functional testing

Potential Risks and Complications

Arthroscopy for meniscus tear is a safe, well-established procedure with a very low complication rate. However, as with any surgery, risks exist:

• Infection (less than 1%)

• Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), minimised with early mobilisation and blood thinners

• Nerve or vessel injury (rare)

• Stiffness (addressed with early physiotherapy)

• Re-tear of a repaired meniscus (more common in non-compliant patients)

• Failure to fully relieve symptoms in degenerative cases

Our surgeons take every precaution to minimise these risks, and all patients receive a detailed pre-operative counselling session.

Why Choose Sports Orthopedics Institute for Arthroscopy in Bengaluru?

Bengaluru, home to millions of IT professionals, athletes, and active individuals, has a growing need for world-class orthopaedic care. At Sports Orthopedics Institute, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, we offer:

• Expert leadership under Dr. Naveen Kumar L.V (MBBS, MS Orth, FRCS Orth, MCh Hip & Knee UK), a globally trained orthopaedic and sports medicine specialist with 24+ years of experience

• 10,000+ successful surgical procedures performed

• International training and qualifications from the UK, Italy, Switzerland, and Portugal

• Advanced arthroscopic equipment for precision knee surgery

• A patient-first approach with individualised treatment planning

• Strong affiliation with the Indian Arthroscopy Society, Royal College of Surgeons of England, and other international bodies

• Accessible location serving patients from HSR Layout, Koramangala, Sarjapur Road, BTM Layout, Electronic City, and across Karnataka

We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. Every patient receives a thorough explanation of their diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes before a single decision is made. Explore our full range of orthopaedic procedures and surgeries to understand how we can help you.

For patients dealing with shoulder, elbow, ankle, or hip conditions in addition to knee problems, our multi-joint expertise ensures comprehensive musculoskeletal care under one roof. Learn about our shoulder pain management and ankle care programmes as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a meniscus tear heal without surgery?

Minor Grade 1 and Grade 2 tears often heal with physiotherapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, complete Grade 3 tears, especially bucket-handle tears or root tears, rarely heal on their own and typically require arthroscopic intervention for lasting relief.

2. How long does arthroscopic meniscus surgery take?

The procedure typically takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the complexity of the tear and whether a repair or meniscectomy is performed.

3. Is arthroscopy for meniscus tear a major surgery?

No. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive (keyhole) procedure requiring only 2–3 small incisions under 5 mm. Most patients are discharged on the same day or within 24 hours, making it significantly less disruptive than open surgery.

4. What is the success rate of arthroscopic meniscus surgery?

Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy has an 85–95% rate of significant symptom relief. Meniscus repair has a success rate of 80–90%, with over 90% of athletes returning to sport when performed in suitable candidates.

5. Can I walk after arthroscopic meniscus surgery?

After a partial meniscectomy, most patients walk with a crutch within a few hours of surgery and are walking unaided within 1–2 weeks. After a meniscus repair, crutches are used for up to 6 weeks to protect the repair.

6. Will I need physiotherapy after the surgery?

Yes, physiotherapy is essential and not optional. A structured rehabilitation programme is critical for restoring muscle strength, joint stability, and movement, and for reducing the risk of re-injury.

7. Is meniscus surgery covered by health insurance in India?

Most health insurance plans in India cover arthroscopic meniscus surgery as an in-patient or day-care procedure. It is advisable to verify your specific policy with your insurer before surgery.

8. At what age can arthroscopic meniscus repair be performed?

Arthroscopic meniscus surgery can be performed across all age groups, from teenagers with sports injuries to senior citizens with degenerative tears. The type of procedure chosen (repair vs. meniscectomy) is guided by age, tear pattern, and overall health status.

9. How soon can athletes return to sport after meniscus arthroscopy?

After a partial meniscectomy, athletes typically return to sport in 6–12 weeks. After meniscus repair, return to sport is expected at 4–6 months, following a guided rehabilitation programme.

10. What happens if a meniscus tear is left untreated?

An untreated meniscal tear can lead to persistent pain, recurrent swelling, joint instability, damage to the articular cartilage, and progressive osteoarthritis, making early treatment crucial for long-term joint health.

Conclusion

A torn meniscus does not have to mean the end of your active lifestyle. With advances in arthroscopic technology and surgical technique, the vast majority of patients achieve excellent outcomes, returning to sport, work, and daily activities with minimal downtime. The key lies in an accurate diagnosis, a well-timed surgical decision, and a disciplined rehabilitation programme.

At Sports Orthopedics Institute in Bengaluru, we combine international expertise with personalised care to give you the best possible outcome from your arthroscopy for meniscus tear. Whether you are a professional cricketer, a recreational runner, or someone who simply wants to walk up stairs without pain, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Ready to take the first step towards a pain-free knee? Book a consultation with our specialists today.

Additional Resources

• Knee Pain: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment at Sports Orthopedics Institute

• Our Surgical Procedures

• Meet Our Specialists

• Clinical Videos & Patient Outcomes

External Reference:

• Indian Arthroscopy Society, www.indianarthroscopysociety.org

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Meniscal Tear Overview, orthoinfo.aaos.org

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified orthopaedic surgeon for a personalised assessment of your condition.

Sports Orthopedics Institute
✉ sportsorthopedics.in@gmail.com
www.sportsorthopedics.in