A torn meniscus damages one of the C-shaped cartilage pieces that cushion the knee joint. It often results from sudden twists or direct impact to the knee. When symptoms like pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee persist, surgery is a common treatment option. Most meniscus surgeries use arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique where a surgeon inserts a small camera and instruments through tiny incisions to visualize and repair the knee joint.
Typical Surgical Procedure Length
The time a surgeon spends performing a meniscus procedure is typically brief. For many patients, the arthroscopic surgery itself can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. This timeframe, known as “operating room time,” is when the patient is under anesthesia and the surgeon is actively working. The specific duration depends on the complexity of the tear and the type of repair needed.
Factors Influencing Surgery Duration
Several factors influence the length of meniscus surgery. The type of tear significantly impacts duration; a simple radial tear might require less time than a complex bucket-handle tear with displaced tissue. The surgical approach also plays a role. A partial meniscectomy, which removes the damaged portion, is generally quicker than a meniscus repair, which sutures torn edges. A surgeon’s experience and unexpected findings, such as additional cartilage damage or loose bodies, can also extend operative time.
The Full Day of Surgery
While the surgical procedure is relatively short, the entire day of surgery extends beyond operating room time. Patients typically arrive at the surgical facility a couple of hours before their scheduled surgery for pre-operative preparation. This includes check-in, changing into a gown, meeting with the anesthesia team, and having an intravenous (IV) line inserted. After the surgery is complete, patients are moved to a post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) for recovery, where they are monitored as they awaken from anesthesia and their initial pain is managed. Total time at the surgical facility, from arrival to discharge, generally ranges from two to four hours, though some cases may take longer depending on individual recovery.
Immediate Post-Surgery Expectations
Immediately following discharge, patients can expect some pain in the knee, typically managed with prescribed medication. Swelling is also common and can be reduced by applying ice packs and keeping the leg elevated. Most individuals will use crutches and may be placed in a knee brace to protect the healing joint and limit mobility initially. Weight-bearing restrictions vary by surgery type; a meniscectomy often allows immediate weight-bearing, while a meniscus repair typically requires a period of non-weight-bearing for sutures to heal.