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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryPain and pain management Use of medications Important side effects Hospital stay Hospital discharge Convalescent assistance RehabilitationConclusion

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Home « Clinical Services « Sports Medicine & Arthroscopy

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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Recovering from surgery

Pain and pain management

In the first 24-48 hours after arthroscopic meniscectomy, the operated knee is swollen and moderately painful. However most patients are able to return to sedentary jobs by the third postoperative day. Medications used to manage pain in the first 48 hours include oral narcotics such as hydrocodone or oxycodone. Some patients obtain good pain relief in the immediate postoperative period with Vioxx. Subsequently, acetaminophen or ibuprofen are sufficient. The application of ice or other cold therapeutic devices to the knee are also very helpful in controlling pain and swelling.

Use of medications

Most patients do not use any pain relievers after the first postoperative week.

Important side effects

Narcotic pain medications can cause drowsiness, slowness of breathing, difficulties emptying bowel and bladder, nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. Anti-inflammatory medications can cause stomach irritation, nausea and headaches. Patients who have had substantial exposure to narcotic medications or alcohol in the recent past may find that the usual doses of pain medication are less effective. For some patients, balancing the benefit and the side effects of pain medication is challenging. Patients should notify their surgeon if they have had previous difficulties with pain medication or pain control.

Hospital stay

Arthroscopic meniscectomy is an outpatient procedure. After surgery the patient remains in the recovery room until the effects of anesthesia have worn off, usually for 1-2 hours.

Hospital discharge

By the time the patient leaves the recovery room, he or she may put as much weight as tolerated on the operated limb. Many patients choose to use crutches for a few days. Staying relatively quiet, keeping the limb elevated and the knee iced for 48 hours is the best way to keep swelling to a minimum thus speeding return to full activities. During the first 48 hours, before the patient is fully up and around, it is also important to flex one's feet up and down regularly to help prevent blood clots from forming in the calf veins.

Convalescent assistance

Patients do not require a convalescent facility after arthroscopic meniscectomy. They may require some assistance with self-care for the first day or two. Driving may be difficult in the first postoperative week until the swelling has resolved enough to allow sufficient knee motion.

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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