A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries, especially among athletes and active adults. While it might seem easier to simply remove the damaged tissue, preserving and repairing the meniscus often leads to better long-term outcomes. Here’s why meniscus repair is becoming the preferred choice for preserving knee function and long-term joint health.
What Is the Meniscus and Why It Matters
The meniscus is a wedge-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint. Each knee has two menisci—medial and lateral—that help distribute weight and reduce friction during movement. When torn, the meniscus can cause pain, swelling, clicking, and limited range of motion. The way the meniscus tear is treated plays a critical role in how the knee performs over time.
Meniscus Repair vs. Removal: Understanding the Difference
Meniscus Repair involves stitching the torn cartilage back together so it can heal naturally. This approach preserves the structure and function of the meniscus, especially in younger or active patients with healthy tissue and a tear in a well-vascularized zone—an area with good blood supply that supports healing and tissue regeneration.
Meniscectomy (Removal) refers to trimming or removing the damaged portion of the meniscus. While it may offer quicker recovery early on, long-term studies show that patients who undergo removal are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and knee instability down the line.1
Why Preservation Is the Better Long-Term Strategy
- Joint Protection: The meniscus plays a vital role in absorbing shock and protecting cartilage. Preserving it helps prevent premature wear and tear in the knee.
- Lower Risk of Arthritis: Meniscus removal significantly increases the risk of developing arthritis—even years after the initial injury.
- Improved Function: Repaired menisci often lead to better long-term knee stability, strength, and athletic performance.
Modern techniques and biologic therapies have improved healing success rates, making repair a viable option for more patients than ever before.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Knee
The decision to repair or remove depends on factors like the location and type of tear, your age, and your activity level. As an orthopedic surgeon with expertise in knee preservation, Dr. Mithoefer can evaluate your injury using advanced imaging and recommend the best treatment path for long-term knee health. Preserving your meniscus today may help protect your joint for years to come.
AUTHOR: Kai Mithoefer, MD is board-certified in both Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic sports medicine specialist. Dr. Mithoefer is an internationally recognized specialist for complex shoulder and knee injuries with over 15 years of experience with the treatment of sports-related injuries. Dr. Mithoefer practices at Boston Bone and Joint Institute and has published more than 100 scientific articles and book chapters, and is a frequent speaker at national and international orthopedic meetings.
Reference:
1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10719156/
