What is the difference between a meniscectomy and a meniscal repair?
A. A meniscectomy is the medical term for a partial removal of the meniscus. This is done over 90% of the time, and almost always in patients over the age of 40. There are certain patterns of meniscal tears that are amenable to repairing with sutures. The periphery of the meniscus has a blood supply, the inner two thirds does not have a blood supply. A meniscal repair is frequently performed in conjunction with ACL surgery because of the specific pattern of tear. Meniscal repairs are more extensive surgical procedures and take longer to recover and return to sport. A meniscal repair frequently requires making a 1- 2 inch incision along the inside or outside of the knee as part of the procedure.
