What is the difference between meniscal repair and partial menisectomy?
The location of the tear determines if the meniscus can be repaired or the torn portion of the tissue must be removed. If the tear is in the outer one-third of the meniscus, there is usually an adequate blood supply so that it can be stitched together and healing will occur. If the tear is located in the inner two-thirds of the meniscus, where most tears occur, there is not any blood supply and the torn portion needs to be removed. If the tear is removed, the patient can walk on the knee immediately, although you will still be advised to use crutches for several days or until your knee feels comfortable. After surgery, the thigh muscles get “lazy” and the knee may give way on you. The crutches will help during this initial time period after your operation. If the tear is repaired, the joint needs some time to heal. During the initial four weeks, the patient must restrict bending the knee past 90 degrees to avoid putting undue strain on the repair. The last difference between a meniscal
