Meniscus Repair Surgery
A surgical procedure that preserves and stitches the torn meniscus to support natural healing
The meniscus is a critical structure within your knee joint, acting as a shock absorber and stabiliser. When torn, it can lead to pain, swelling, instability, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. In suitable cases, meniscus repair surgery offers the opportunity to preserve this important tissue and restore normal knee function.
What is a meniscus tear
Each knee has two menisci: the medial meniscus (on the inner side) and the lateral meniscus (on the outer side). These C-shaped pieces of cartilage cushion the joint, distribute load during movement, and help maintain knee stability.
A meniscus tear can result from:
Acute injury, such as twisting or pivoting during sports
Degenerative changes, especially in older adults
Knee instability or misalignment
Associated ligament injuries, such as ACL tears
Symptoms may include a popping sensation, swelling, difficulty bending or straightening the knee, locking or catching of the joint, and pain along the joint line.
WHAT IS A MENISCUS REPAIR?
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure aimed at suturing the torn edges of the meniscus to promote natural healing. This approach is typically recommended when the tear occurs in the outer third of the meniscus, known as the “red zone,” where there is a rich blood supply that supports the healing process.
By preserving the natural structure of the knee, meniscus repair helps maintain long-term joint function and stability.
Meniscal repair surgery is a minimally invasive day procedure performed through knee arthroscopy, a technique that allows Dr Liddell to access and treat the damaged meniscus with precision and care.
Who is a Candidate for Meniscus Repair Surgery?
Dr Liddell carefully assesses whether repair is the right option for you. Factors that make a tear more likely to be repairable include:
Tear location in the vascular (outer) zone, which has a better blood supply for healing
Vertical or longitudinal tears, especially those caused by trauma
Younger or active patients, whose tissue is more likely to heal successfully
Associated surgeries, such as ACL reconstruction, where blood flow and healing potential are enhanced
In cases where a repair is not possible, Dr Liddell may perform a partial meniscectomy, removing only the damaged section to relieve symptoms while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
How the Meniscus Repair Procedure is Performed?
Meniscus repair is usually performed arthroscopically, using a small camera (arthroscope) and specialised instruments inserted through keyhole incisions in the front of the knee. This minimally invasive approach allows for precise assessment and treatment with reduced trauma to surrounding tissue.
Surgical Procedure Overview
Performed under general or spinal anaesthesia
Two to three small incisions are made to access the knee joint
The arthroscope is used to thoroughly examine the meniscus and confirm the tear
Depending on the tear’s location and pattern, Dr Liddell uses one of the following advanced suture techniques: All-inside, Inside-out or Outside-in.
The edges of the tear are trimmed to promote healing, then sutured securely using specialised tools
In some cases, microfracture is performed in nearby non-weight-bearing cartilage to release marrow cells that enhance healing
The repair is checked carefully to ensure stability and joint function
The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity and whether additional treatments (such as ligament reconstruction) are required and most patients return home the same day, once fully recovered from anaesthesia.
Recovery After Meniscus Repair Surgery
Meniscus repair involves suturing the torn edges of the meniscus to promote healing and preserve the knee’s natural function. Because the meniscus must heal itself following the repair, this procedure requires the longest recovery period among the three types of meniscus surgeries.
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.
During this period, you will gradually increase your range of motion while continuing to limit weight-bearing activities. Physiotherapy will focus on maintaining knee mobility and preventing stiffness. Dr Liddell may gradually allow you to bear weight on the knee with the assistance of crutches or a brace.
At this stage, you’ll start to bear more weight on the knee and engage in strengthening exercises. Full weight-bearing is typically allowed by the 8th to 10th week, but strenuous activities should still be avoided. Physiotherapy focuses on strength, flexibility, and gait retraining.
Over the next several months, you will gradually return to more vigorous activities, including sports. Most patients return to low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling at this stage.
Return to full sports or high-demand activity may be possible, depending on your recovery progress.
Dr Liddell provides a tailored rehabilitation protocol for each patient and works closely with your physiotherapist to optimise healing and protect the repair.