Arthroscopic Meniscectomy-Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Surgery for Torn Meniscus Cartilage in the Knee.
Edited By: Carol C. Teitz, M.D.
Last updated Friday, January 02, 2009
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RehabilitationPhysical therapy The keys to full functional recovery are regaining knee range of motion
and Quadriceps muscle strength. Both are limited as long as the knee is
swollen. Many patients are able to regain their motion and strength
with exercises at home. Some patients require the assistance of a
physical therapist. Usually at the first post operative visit, the
surgeon can determine whether or not PT is necessary.Usual response Most patients respond well to rehabilitation after arthroscopic
meniscectomy. Usually as the swelling resolves, motion increases and it
is easier to work on muscle strengthening exercises. If the exercises
are difficult or painful, the patient should contact the therapist or
surgeon.Risks Rehabilitation after arthroscopic meniscectomy carries little or no risk.Duration of rehabilitation Rehabilitation is continued until the knee has regained full range of motion and strength .Returning to ordinary daily activities Usually patients return to activities of daily living in 48 hours
postoperatively. Depending on the amount of swelling, driving may be
difficult for an additional 2-3 days. Returning to sports is usually
discouraged until the patient has recovered full range of motion and
strength. On average this takes 4-6 weeks.Long-term patient limitations Usually there are no limitations on the patients after full recovery
and rehabilitation. However, if at the time of surgery the surgeon
noted significant arthritic changes in the knee, running sports may be
discouraged to slow down the progression of the arthritis.Costs Most of the rehabilitation after arthroscopic meniscectomy is done
at home. Nevertheless, when physical therapy is required, the surgeon
or therapist can provide information on the usual cost for physical
therapy visits. Each insurance company has its own plan for coverage of
physical therapy.
Surgery for Torn Meniscus Cartilage in the Knee 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 or 425-646-7777 to make an appointment. Our clinical center is located in Seattle Washington, USA
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