It involves surgical removal of the half-moon-shaped cartilage structures called meniscus in the knee joint. It also includes correction. to this situation meniscus surgery It is called.
In Which Situations Is Meniscus Surgery Performed?
meniscus surgery It can be applied in the following cases:
During the rotational movement of the knee joint, tissue tear may occur. While these tears may sometimes be small and irregular, sometimes larger and more serious tears may occur. Depending on the type, size and location of the tears, surgery may be required. Torn pieces can sometimes get stuck in the joint and restrict the movement of the knee. This condition causes a locking feeling in the knee and surgery may be required. Chronic pain, swelling and limitation of movement caused by the tear may require surgical intervention.
In young and active individuals, if symptoms due to the tear limit physical activities, surgery is considered. If conservative treatment methods (medications, physical therapy, etc.) cannot improve the symptoms due to meniscus tear and the symptoms gradually worsen, the surgery option is considered. meniscus surgery It is typically performed arthroscopically. In this method, a camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint through small incisions.
When necessary, meniscus tissue is repaired or the torn part is removed. However, not every meniscus tear requires surgery. In some cases, conservative treatments may be sufficient. The choice of treatment is determined by the type, size, location of the tear and the patient's general health condition. The doctor will decide whether surgery is required or not. Your doctor also decides what approach should be taken.
What are the Stages of Meniscus Surgery?
First of all, the doctor evaluates the patient's complaints such as knee pain, swelling and limitation of movement. A meniscus tear is diagnosed using physical examination and imaging methods, and the type, size and location of the tear are determined. Before the surgery, the patient's general health condition is evaluated. Information such as the patient's medical history, allergies, and medication use is obtained. Before the surgery, the patient is informed about the process and expectations. The surgery can usually be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia.
The appropriate anesthesia method is selected in line with the patient's preference and the doctor's recommendation. During the surgery, the doctor makes small incisions in the kneecap. Through these incisions, an arthroscope (a camera in a thin tube) and surgical instruments are inserted into the knee. Thanks to the arthroscope, the inside is looked at and the tear is visualized. Depending on the type and location of the tear, he decides on repair or removal. In small tears, the meniscus can be repaired, while in large or damaged tears, the damaged parts can be removed.
If a repair has been made, the edges of the tear are brought together with stitches. Then, the surgical area is gently closed and dressed. meniscus surgery Afterwards, the patient should rest for a while and follow the treatment plan recommended by his doctor. A physical therapy and rehabilitation program helps the patient regain knee strength and flexibility. The postoperative period may vary depending on the patient's general health condition, the type of surgery and the severity of the tear. It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations carefully and focus on the healing process.
What is the Recovery Process After Meniscus Surgery?
You may not usually need to stay in the hospital in the first days after surgery. There may be pain and swelling after surgery. It is important to use the painkillers prescribed by your doctor regularly. At the same time, resting with your leg elevated may help reduce swelling. Physical therapy can be started within a few days. Your physical therapist can recommend specific exercises and movements to increase your leg's strength and range of motion. During this period, it is important to fully straighten your leg and ensure its bending.
During the first few weeks, you should avoid putting too much weight on your leg. You should walk as recommended by your doctor and physiotherapist. You should climb the stairs and move around by checking the sitting positions. It may also be necessary to use crutches or a walker during this period. In the following weeks, the strength and mobility in your leg begin to increase. Doctor, meniscus surgery will provide physical therapy plans according to your recovery process. Doing exercises regularly during this period helps strengthen your muscles and expand your range of motion.
The recovery process may vary depending on personal factors. However, it can usually take several weeks to return to light physical activity. Returning to more intense sports depends on your doctor's approval. Full recovery time may vary from person to person. Improvement may continue for several months. Your doctor will tell you what types of activities you can return to once full recovery is achieved. meniscus surgery post-healing processYou must follow your doctor's recommendations. It is important to go to physical therapy regularly, exercise and rest according to your body's needs. It is important to stay in touch with your doctor throughout this process.
