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What To Expect
Partial meniscectomy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure in which an arthroscope and fine arthroscopic instruments are used to resect portions of a symptomatic, torn meniscus. There are multiple types of tear patterns, but regardless, only the unstable torn sections are removed. This creates a stable rim of meniscus in order to prevent further tearing. A full evaluation of the entire knee, including the articular cartilage and ligaments, is performed. There is variability in the recovery time from the procedure from a few weeks to a few months and associated conditions, such as cartilage wear, may determine the overall recovery. Your rehabilitation starts immediately after surgery in order to ensure the best possible return to full activity.
Phase 1 (0 – 2 weeks postop)
Goals: Control pain, diminish swelling, begin regaining knee motion, restore normal gait pattern
- Pain: You will be prescribed pain medication to use after surgery. Use as directed and wean use to as needed. You may begin taking an anti-inflammatory medication (i.e. ibuprofen, naproxen) unless medically contraindicated. Do not drive or use alcohol while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Weight bearing: You may put full weight on your leg as tolerated.
- Use crutches for the first few days until you feel comfortable walking. Transition to one crutch used in the arm on the opposite side of surgery until able to walk with a normal heel-toe gait with minimal discomfort.
- Ice: Place a bag of ice or cryocuff on the knee for 30 minutes a few times each day and after therapy or home exercises.
- Dressing: Remove the ace wrap and discard all white dressings about your knee on the 3rd day after surgery
- You may shower, but keep your knee dry until sutures are removed
- Do not submerge knee until suture removal (no baths, pools, hot tubs)
- Keep incisions covered with band-aids or wrap knee with ace wrap to protect incision during the day
- Schedule your postoperative visit for 10-14 days after surgery. At this visit:
- Suture removal
- Review of your surgery (bring your surgical photos) and rehab plan
- Prescription for physical therapy if necessary or desired
