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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureTechnical details Anesthetic Length of arthroscopic meniscectomy-minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery Recovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Arthroscopic Meniscectomy-Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Surgery for Torn Meniscus Cartilage in the Knee.

Edited By: Carol C. Teitz, M.D.
Last updated Wednesday, January 12, 2005

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Arthroscopic Meniscectomy - Set-up for Arthroscopic Meniscectomy

About the procedure

What are the technical details of arthroscopic meniscectomy-minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for torn meniscus cartilage in the knee? What is actually done?

Once the patient is asleep or the knee is anesthetized, three small holes (portals) are made in the knee. The arthroscope is inserted into one of the portals. Another portal is used for a cannula to keep a saline solution flowing through the knee to improve visibility and maneuverability of the instruments. The third portal is for the working tools. The arthroscope and the tools are typically 4.5 mm in diameter. The entire inside of the knee is inspected, including the kneecap, the ends of the thigh and leg bones that form the knee, the menisci, and the cruciate ligaments. The tear is identified and probed with a small hook to determine where it starts and ends and how mobile it is. The torn fragment is then cut free and removed. The edge of the remaining meniscus is then shaved smooth. Any shaggy articular (gliding) cartilage is also shaved. The knee is then reinspected to make sure there are no other abnormal findings. Finally additional saline is flushed through the knee to wash out any tiny particles that may be floating around. The portals are each closed with one stitch and a long acting pain reliever is injected into the joint.

What is the typical anesthetic used for arthroscopic meniscectomy-minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for torn meniscus cartilage in the knee?

Arthroscopic meniscectomy can be performed with the patient under a general anesthetic or with a spinal block. Before surgery, patients can discuss their preferences and the risks and benefits of various types of anesthesia with the anesthesiologist. Because arthroscopic surgery is done with a camera on the arthroscope, a patient who has chosen to stay awake may watch and talk to the surgeon during the procedure.

How long does arthroscopic meniscectomy-minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for torn meniscus cartilage in the knee usually take?

The procedure usually takes about one hour. However, the preoperative preparation and the postoperative recovery may add several hours to this time.

Surgery for Torn Meniscus Cartilage in the Knee at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, 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 or 425-646-7777 to make an appointment.

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