Meniscus Tear Treatment in Abu Dhabi, UAE

What is Meniscus Surgery?

The meniscus is the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee joint, specifically between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone), reducing friction during movement.

Injuries, such as those from sports or wear and tear due to aging, can lead to meniscus damage and degeneration. When the meniscus becomes severely injured or worn away, replacement surgery may be necessary to restore smooth and pain-free movement in the knee joint.

Why is Meniscus Surgery done?

The definitive treatment for a meniscal tear is surgery, as it helps restore knee function. Surgery is typically recommended if the tear is classified as high-grade based on the doctor’s evaluation or if other treatments, such as medications or physical therapy, do not yield effective results.

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Who needs Meniscus Surgery?

Several factors influence the doctor’s decision on whether a patient needs surgery. These include the patient’s age, any coexisting medical conditions, and the specific characteristics of the meniscal tear—such as its grade, location within the knee, and whether it is a stable or unstable injury.

Why Choose Meniscus Surgery at Reem Hospital, Abu Dhabi?

At Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi, we have a dedicated team of highly skilled orthopedic surgeons specializing in sports injuries. With our state-of-the-art technologies, we provide exceptional care for meniscal tears. Our outstanding rehabilitation team ensures you receive comprehensive support from diagnosis to complete healing.

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How does a Meniscus Tear happen?

Meniscal tears occur when you twist your knee suddenly while bearing weight on it, or from repetitive stress during certain sports.

Additionally, as people age, the meniscus can weaken, making it more vulnerable to injury from even minor trauma.

Benefits of Meniscus Tear Treatment

Meniscus surgery can enhance your mobility, allowing you to return to sports and physical activities as usual. It also stabilizes the knee and can significantly reduce or eliminate pain from a torn meniscus.

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Procedures of Meniscus Surgery

• Partial Meniscectomy Surgery

Partial meniscectomy surgery removes damaged meniscus tissue. This procedure uses 2-3 small incisions to remove any tissue flaps causing irritation. It takes about 30 minutes, and patients will wear a soft bandage for a few days and may need crutches for one week. Full knee function usually returns within 3-6 weeks with rehabilitation.

• Meniscus Transplant Surgery

Meniscus transplant surgery is recommended for patients who have lost most of their meniscus. In this procedure, the damaged meniscus is replaced with a donor meniscus. Patients typically wear a brace and use crutches for 4-6 weeks. They can return to daily activities in 2-3 months and may resume sports in 6 months to a year.

• Meniscus Surgery Combined with Osteotomy

When a meniscus tear is accompanied by malalignment of the knee and leg bones, a combined osteotomy may be performed. This procedure involves realigning the bones through an incision, which can take 1-2 hours. After surgery, patients may need crutches for up to six weeks, and physical therapy will support recovery over several months.

How to prepare for Meniscus Surgery

• Compile Your Medical History: Gather your medical and family history, including details about the trauma. This information will help your doctor understand your health and lifestyle, allowing for more effective treatment.
• Understand the Procedure: Be informed about your surgery, including its risks, benefits, and alternatives.
• Manage Blood Thinners: If you take blood-thinning medication, follow your doctor’s guidance on whether to stop or continue taking it. Know when to stop and when to resume.
• Arrange Transportation: Make sure someone can drive you home after surgery, as anesthesia and pain medications will make it unsafe for you to drive.
• Use Special Soap: Shower or bathe with chlorhexidine soap the night before and the morning of your surgery to reduce bacteria on your skin.

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Meniscus Treatment Aftercare

• Partial Meniscectomy Surgery: patients will wear a soft bandage for a few days and may need crutches for one week. Full knee function usually returns within 3-6 weeks with rehabilitation.
• Meniscus Transplant Surgery: Patients wear braces and crutches for 4-6 weeks. They can return to daily activities in 2-3 months and may resume sports in 6 months to a year.
• Meniscus Surgery Combined with Osteotomy: After surgery, patients may need crutches for up to six weeks, and physical therapy will support recovery over several months.

Risks of Meniscus Surgery

• Meniscus surgery is generally safe and effective, but it does carry some risks, such as bleeding, infections, and potential stiffness in the knee after recovery.
• Additionally, a partial meniscectomy may increase the risk of developing inflammation of the knee joint (arthritis) in that knee later in life due to increased stress and friction.
• Discussing these risks with your surgeon is important, as the benefits of treating a torn meniscus often outweigh the potential complications for most people.

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