What is Meniscus Repair?
Meniscus repair uses stitches to bring the edges of a torn meniscus back together so the tissue can heal.
The meniscus is the C-shaped cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the knee.
Repair is preferred over trimming when the tear is in a part of the meniscus with enough blood supply to heal, usually the outer rim. Keeping more meniscus helps protect the knee over the long term.
Not every tear can be repaired. Tears in the inner part have little blood supply, and those are more often trimmed. The choice is guided by the tear's location, pattern, and the patient's age and activity.
What happens during Meniscus Repair, step by step?
Repair is done with arthroscopy, a small camera through tiny incisions.
The surgeon places sutures across the tear to hold the edges together while the tissue heals. If the tear is in a region that cannot heal, the surgeon trims the damaged part instead. Dr. wodicka will explain what was found and done.
What is recovery like after Meniscus Repair?
Repair requires a more protected recovery than trimming because the stitched tissue needs time to heal.
Many people use a brace and limit deep bending and full weight for a period of weeks, with a gradual return to activity over several months, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These are ranges, not promises. Your surgical team will set the specific restrictions for your repair.
Who performs meniscus repair in Fort Lauderdale?
ross wodicka is a orthopedic surgeon who performs meniscus repair in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Fellowship trained at southern california orthopaedic institute (scoi). Dr. wodicka sees patients at the practice in Fort Lauderdale; appointments can be requested through this site.
What do patients ask most often?
Why repair a meniscus instead of removing the torn part?
Keeping more of the meniscus preserves the knee's cushion and helps protect the joint over the long term. Repair is preferred when the tear location can heal.
Which tears can be repaired?
Tears in the outer rim, where blood supply is better, are the most repairable. Tears in the inner part have little blood supply and are more often trimmed.
Is recovery longer after a repair than a trimming?
Yes. A repair needs a protected period so the stitched tissue can heal, while a trimming usually allows a quicker return to activity. Both are discussed as ranges.
Can a repaired meniscus tear again?
It can, as with any healing tissue. Following the rehabilitation plan and activity restrictions lowers the risk, and your team will guide the timeline.
How do payments work?
Contact the office to confirm insurance participation.
This page is for general education and does not replace an evaluation by a physician. Individual treatment plans vary, and this content should not be used to self-diagnose.