Although arthroscopic surgery of the meniscus is minimally invasive, you may still experience knee pain after the surgery.
It provides stability to the knee and reduces weight-bearing stress on the lower leg.
Long-Term Problems After Meniscus Surgery
Arthroscopic knee surgery is the frontline surgical approach to treating severemeniscal tears.
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The success rate can be high depending on the aims of the surgery.
For these people, revision surgery may be needed.
Postoperative Arthritis
The throw in of meniscus surgery you undergo may determine your risk of kneeosteoarthritis.
The loss of cartilage during surgery can accelerate this process.
As such, the more meniscus you remove, the greater the risk of OA.
The risk differs by which section of the meniscus is repaired.
The risk is reinjury is greater in older adults and those who play contact sports.
Nerve Damage
The knee joint is populated with nerves that regulate movements and provide sensations like pain.
Although rare, arthroscopic knee surgery can causeneuropathy(nerve damage) due to problems before and after surgery.
The medial (inner) meniscus is most commonly affected.
Symptoms of SONK include:
The pain is typically worsened with activity and relieved by rest.
SONK often resolves on its own when using crutches to reduce vascular compression.
Severe cases can cause major bone loss, requiring either apartialortotal knee replacement.
How Is a Long-Term Meniscus Injury Treated?
This may involve:
Alternatives to Surgery
Surgery is not always needed to heal a meniscus injury.
Causes include insufficient rehabilitation, a premature return to sports, surgical errors, and improper traction.
Speak with your healthcare provider if pain and other symptoms persist or recur after surgery for a meniscal injury.
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