Partial Meniscectomy
A surgical procedure to remove the torn portion of the meniscus and relieve knee pain
The meniscus plays a critical role in the health and function of your knee joint. It acts as a cushion between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia), helping to distribute load, absorb shock, and stabilise the knee during movement. When part of the meniscus becomes torn or frayed and cannot be repaired, a partial meniscectomy may be recommended to relieve pain and improve function.
Dr Liddell , where possible, prioritises meniscal preservation, but when repair is not viable, a partial meniscectomy may be the most effective option to relieve symptoms and support recovery.
What is a Partial Meniscectomy?
A partial meniscectomy is a procedure focused on removing only the torn or damaged portion of the meniscus, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible to maintain knee stability and function. This approach is often chosen when the tear occurs in the inner two-thirds of the meniscus, known as the “white zone” or “red-white zone,” where blood supply is limited, and natural healing is unlikely. By removing only, the unstable, damaged areas, partial meniscectomy aims to alleviate pain, restore normal knee movement, and reduce the risk of further joint damage.
When a Partial Meniscectomy may be recommended
Dr Liddell may recommend a partial meniscectomy if:
- Non-surgical treatments have been unsuccessful in reducing symptoms or promoting healing in the affected meniscus.
- The tear is too large or complex to be repaired. When repair isn’t feasible, partial removal of the damaged area can provide relief and prevent ongoing irritation.
- The knee joint is unstable or experiences mechanical issues, such as locking, catching, or giving way. These symptoms can make everyday movements painful or challenging.
- Persistent pain and swelling continue to impact daily activities, affecting quality of life and mobility.
The Partial Meniscectomy Surgical Procedure
Partial meniscectomy is typically performed arthroscopically, using a small camera (arthroscope) and fine instruments inserted through tiny incisions in the knee. Dr Liddell carefully inspects the joint, confirms the diagnosis, and trims or removes the damaged meniscal tissue.
Key steps include:
- Anaesthesia: To ensure comfort, you will receive either general anaesthesia (putting you to sleep) or spinal anaesthesia (numbing you from the waist down).
- Arthroscopic Surgery: Dr Liddell will create small incisions around the knee to insert an arthroscope—a slim instrument with a camera that provides a detailed view of the knee joint on a monitor. Additional tiny incisions allow for the insertion of specialised surgical tools.
- Trimming the Torn Meniscus: Using the arthroscopic instruments, Dr Liddell will precisely trim the damaged portion of the meniscus, carefully shaping the edges of the remaining tissue to reduce the risk of irritation or further damage. This selective removal of torn tissue helps improve knee function and decrease pain.
- Completing the Surgery: Once the damaged meniscus tissue is removed, the instruments are withdrawn, and the small incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips. Your knee will be bandaged, and you will be taken to a recovery area to begin post-operative care.
The surgery typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia. In most cases, patients go home the same day.
Recovery following Partial Meniscectomy Surgery
Compared to meniscus repair, recovery after partial meniscectomy is generally quicker because no sutures are required and the meniscus does not need time to heal. Typical recovery timelines are as follows:
In the first few days’ post-surgery, you’ll likely be advised to use crutches to keep weight off the knee. Dr Liddell may recommend wearing a knee brace to protect the repair and limit movement. You will begin gentle range-of-motion exercises as instructed by your physiotherapist. Mild swelling and discomfort are expected and can be managed with prescribed pain medications and regular icing rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Gentle exercises to maintain knee flexibility are often introduced early to aid recovery.
You’ll gradually increase activity levels, with a focus on strengthening and regaining knee mobility. Physiotherapy may be introduced, incorporating exercises designed to improve strength and balance without placing excessive strain on the healing knee. High-impact activities are avoided at this stage.
Many patients resume regular daily activities, including return to moderate physical activity, including walking, cycling, or swimming and work. It is important to adhere to Dr Liddell’s recommendations regarding activity limits to support optimal healing.
High-impact sports and activities are typically reintroduced only after a full recovery is confirmed by Dr Liddell. Some patients may continue physiotherapy to fully regain strength and prevent future issues. Full recovery timelines vary, but by following post-operative guidelines and maintaining regular follow-up appointments, patients can expect a successful return to daily and athletic activities.
Although a partial meniscectomy can provide significant symptom relief, it is important to remember that the meniscus has a protective role in the knee. Removing even a portion of it may increase the risk of cartilage wear and early arthritis over time, especially in high-impact or repetitive activities.
To reduce future joint stress, Dr Liddell may recommend:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Participating in low-impact exercises
Strengthening the muscles that support the knee
Avoiding deep squatting, pivoting, or high-impact sports without medical clearance