Meniscal Repair Surgery

A meniscal repair is a type of knee surgery done to fix a torn meniscus. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that acts like a cushion between the bones making up the knee joint (thigh bone and shin bone). A torn meniscus can cause pain, swelling, and trouble moving your knee. Not all meniscus tears need surgery, but in some cases—especially in younger or active people—a repair of the meniscal tear is the best option to help the knee heal and work normally again.

Which Patients are candidates for a Meniscal Repair?

Not all meniscal tears can be fixed with a meniscal repair. Tears on the outer edge of the meniscus (Figure 1) have better blood supply, which helps them heal more easily. These tears are good candidates for repair. On the other hand, tears in the inner part of the meniscus have poor blood supply, which makes it harder for them to heal. These tears are usually treated by removing the damaged part instead of repairing it.

How is Meniscal Repair Surgery Performed?

During a meniscal repair, a surgeon uses a tiny camera (an arthroscope) and small tools through small cuts around the knee. The torn parts of the meniscus are stitched or fastened back together (Figure 1). This is usually done using special anchors or sutures that hold the tissue in place so it can heal. The whole procedure is typically done using a method called arthroscopy, which is a less invasive type of knee surgery that helps the knee heal faster and leaves smaller scars.

Recovery from Meniscal Repair Surgery

Recovery after a meniscal repair takes time and patience. After meniscal repair surgery, patients are typically required to remain non-weight bearing for about 4 to 6 weeks to allow the repair to heal properly. During this time, they usually use crutches and may wear a knee brace to protect the knee and limit movement. The exact duration can vary depending on:

• The location and type of the tear
• The surgical technique used
• The surgeon’s protocol and the patient’s overall health

After the initial non-weight-bearing period, patients gradually begin putting weight on the leg as part of a guided physical therapy program. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions, as healing needs can vary person to person.

Physical therapy is an important part of recovery to help regain strength and motion. It can take 3 to 6 months to fully return to sports or other high-level activities.

Results and Potential Complications

Most people who have a meniscal repair see good results, especially if they follow their recovery plan closely. The repaired meniscus can heal and work normally again. However, like any surgery, there are risks. These include infection, the repair not healing, or needing another surgery if the tear doesn’t heal properly. Still, when done in the right patients, a meniscal repair can help keep the knee strong and healthy for years.

Edited by Amari Eubanks and Stephen Pinney MD, July 24th, 2025