Meniscus Surgery: Who May Need It, What to Expect Before, During & After
If you've torn your meniscus, your doctor might suggest meniscus surgery to help you heal. Your meniscus is the rubbery cartilage that cushions and stabilizes your knee joint between the thighbone and shinbone. Sudden twisting or rotating movements can cause an injury to this vital part of your knee, resulting in a tear.
While meniscus surgery is an effective treatment option, it's not always the first choice. The goal is to avoid surgery altogether, if possible. One way to realize this is by using a meniscal brace.
This article will delve into the ins and outs of meniscus surgery, including who it's best suited for and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. We'll also examine why tools like a meniscal brace, a custom knee for meniscal tear, and unloader brace could be a fantastic alternative to surgery.
What is Meniscus Surgery
When the meniscus in your knee is torn or otherwise injured, you may require meniscal surgery. If your doctor or orthopedic surgeon thinks you need meniscal surgery, they will probably propose one of two procedures:
- Meniscectomy: A meniscectomy is a surgical treatment in which the torn or damaged piece of a patient's meniscus is removed surgically.
- Meniscus repair: If a meniscus tear is in a repairable area, your surgeon may sew it back together with sutures. This procedure enables the meniscus to recover normally over time.
Your doctor will recommend the most suitable type of surgery based on several factors, such as the size, location, and type of tear, as well as your age and activity level.
What to Expect Before the Surgery
Are you suffering from a meniscal tear and looking for treatment options? In Ontario, a meniscal treatment Barrie offers a range of solutions to help you recover from this painful injury. One option is to explore non-invasive treatment options like the meniscal brace. Your healthcare practitioner will most likely recommend it, especially if you have a minor tear.
A meniscal brace is a special knee brace that helps support the meniscus. This takes the pressure off the injured area and helps it heal. A custom knee for a meniscal tear can be tailored to your specific needs and is often the first option if surgery is to be avoided.
If surgery is required, your healthcare provider may still recommend a custom knee brace for a meniscal tear or an unloader brace to support your recovery. Before your surgery, be sure to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and make necessary arrangements for your recovery period.
This may include what to eat and drink before the surgery, as well as any medication you need to stop taking and arranging for mobility aids like crutches to assist you during your recovery. You must also arrange transportation to and from the hospital, as you cannot drive after the surgery.
What to Expect During the Surgery
When you undergo meniscal surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will administer general anesthesia; to put you to sleep during the procedure. The surgeon will then make small incisions in your knee to access the torn meniscus. Depending on the extent of the injury, your surgeon will either repair the meniscus using sutures or remove the torn portion if it's too damaged to be saved.
After your meniscal surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area to rest and be watched closely to ensure everything goes smoothly. Depending on the specifics of your surgery and overall health, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few hours, overnight, or longer.
Fortunately, many meniscal surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, which means you can usually return home on the same day as the procedure.
What to Expect After the Surgery
After undergoing meniscal surgery, your medical team will guide you on what actions to take and what to avoid. You must rest and elevate your leg to decrease swelling, and your doctor will prescribe pain medication to alleviate any discomfort. Depending on the severity of your surgery, you may require crutches for a few days or weeks to facilitate mobility.
It's important to discuss your post-surgery care plan with your healthcare provider, including using a meniscal brace or a custom knee brace for meniscal tear to promote healing and protect the knee joint. They may also recommend an unloader brace to help ease any pain or discomfort during recovery.
Outside of custom knee braces, it is advised to utilize a tens machine to aid in muscle development and pain treatment. For this we recommend the knee compex wrap with TENS / Heat.
The Bottom line
As you consider treatment options for your meniscal tear, remember that the goal is always to avoid surgery if possible. A meniscal brace can help support the meniscus, which could keep you from needing surgery. Whether you opt for a custom knee brace for meniscal tear or an unloader brace, taking a proactive approach to your recovery can help you achieve optimal results. If you're looking for meniscal treatment in Barrie, be sure to contact MyoDynamic Health. We'll help you explore the benefits of a meniscal brace as part of your overall recovery plan.