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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureTechnical details Anesthetic Length of arthroscopic meniscus repair Recovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair: A minimally invasive method to repair torn knee cartilage

Edited By: John R. "Trey" Green III, M.D.
Last updated Thursday, January 19, 2006

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About the procedure

What are the technical details of arthroscopic meniscus repair for meniscus tear? What is actually done?

After the anesthetic is administered and knee examined, a tourniquet is placed on the upper thigh and the thigh is secured to the table in a padded limb holder. The knee and lower leg are cleansed and draped and a diagnostic arthroscopy is performed. A diagnostic arthroscopy is a thorough examination of the inside of the joint with a camera hooked up to viewing screens. The instruments are approximately 5mm in diameter and are inserted through three or four 1cm incisions around the knee. One incision is for sterile saline inflow, used to improve visualization within the joint. A systematic inspection of the knee documents any problems, which can also be addressed. The meniscus tear is identified and probed with a small metal hook. The size, pattern, location, stability, and tissue quality of the meniscus tear are assessed, and decision made about repair versus removal of the damaged tissue. The opposing edges of the meniscus tear prepared to enhance healing using a small rasp or motorized shaver. If the blood supply to the tear is questionable, several techniques can be used to improve healing including; placing a blood clot in between the two parts of the tear, creating small vascular access channels in the peripheral rim of meniscus, or making the joint lining bleed. The meniscus is then secured back in place with one or more of a variety of devices including; suture, an absorbable tack, or a meniscus repair device. Sutures require additional small incisions to tie down.

What is the typical anesthetic used for arthroscopic meniscus repair for meniscus tear?

Arthroscopic meniscus repair can be safely performed under general or spinal anesthetic. In addition, local anesthetic is injected into the knee and incision sites. The patient is encouraged to discuss preferences with the anesthesiologist prior to surgery.

How long does arthroscopic meniscus repair for meniscus tear usually take?

Arthroscopic meniscus repair generally takes between an hour and an hour and a half. Depending on how much other surgery is necessary to take care of other problems in the knee, the time may be a bit more or less.

Surgery for Meniscus Tear at the University of Washington, Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Seattle, Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure in Seattle, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-543-1552 to make an appointment. Our clinical center is located in Seattle Washington, USA

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