If you’re dealing with a knee injury that involves a torn meniscus, you might be considering getting surgery as a solution. At Mattalino Orthopaedic in Phoenix, AZ, we specialize in treating knee injuries like yours. We offer meniscus repair surgery that can help you in getting back to your active lifestyle and doing the things that you love. Learn more about what to expect before and after you have your surgery with us.
What Should You Expect Before and After Meniscus Repair Surgery?
Your knee joint is supported by cartilage called the meniscus, which works to absorb shocks and provide stability. You have two menisci in each knee, one on the inner side (medial) and the other on the outer side (lateral). When a meniscus is injured, it can result in knee discomfort, swelling, or restricted movement. If left without an intervention, like meniscus repair surgery, a severely torn meniscus can lead to significant discomfort and an inability to perform your usual activities.
Only an experienced orthopaedic specialist, like our founder Angelo Mattalino, MD, can accurately diagnose the type of knee injury that you have and carry out the specialized surgery that is needed to ensure your full recovery. We can guide you through the pre-and-post-surgery journey, drawing on decades of experience and our expertise in using cutting-edge techniques that can help optimize recovery time and improve your quality of life.
Types of Surgery for Meniscal Tears
Meniscus repair is surgery that aims to restore the functionality of your knee by repairing or removing damaged cartilage that is causing knee discomfort, restricting movement, or causing weakness. Our clinic offers three types of surgery to address this: surgical repair, partial meniscectomy, and total meniscectomy. During your consultation with us, we will carefully assess your knee and determine the best intervention that addresses your immediate injury and can promote better knee health in the future.
Surgical repair is used to mend torn cartilage as a result of physical injury or age-related deterioration. Partial meniscectomy is performed when the tear cannot be treated with less invasive methods and involves removing damaged tissue and leaving healthy tissue intact. A total meniscectomy completely removes the meniscus in a knee joint and can be used to restore knee functionality following severe injury or the onset of arthritis or a related condition.
What To Expect Before and During Surgery
Initially, you will undergo consultations and imaging tests with Dr. Mattalino to determine the type of injury you have and identify the most suitable course of action. Several factors considered include the type of tear (traumatic or degenerative) and its location (medial or lateral), the level of discomfort or movement you experience, and any medication you take or co-existing conditions you have. If meniscus repair surgery is recommended, you will be booked in with Dr. Mattalino on a convenient date.
On the day, anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort. Small incisions will be made to access the knee joint. Depending on the level of injury, Dr. Mattalino will use specialized instruments to visualize and repair the affected meniscus. If minor repairs are not possible, the damaged portion may need to be removed. However, we always aim to use the least invasive methods, so full removal will only be considered if other methods don’t address the underlying issue.
What To Expect After Surgery
After surgery, your knee will be closed up and you will receive specific postoperative instructions. Recovery time will depend on various factors, such as the type of surgery you had and your current state of health. Along with resting your leg for a specific period of time, you may need to take medication for any inflammation you may have. This initial phase of recovery is essential for giving your knee ample time to heal.
You’ll also be advised to follow prescribed rehabilitation exercises to help you get walking and moving again. You may also be recommended physical therapy sessions to help regain movement and build strength. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can also aid your body’s healing process. Once you can walk comfortably again, we can guide you on how to reintroduce low-impact activities and sports back into your routine.
What Are the Benefits of This Surgery?
A meniscal tear is an injury that usually cannot fully heal without some external intervention. This is because our body repairs itself through the circulatory system, where oxygenated blood can reach injured areas and aid healing. Because our menisci have few blood vessels that reach it, any tear in the cartilage will likely remain unrepaired and may worsen if left untreated.
Meniscus repair surgery not only addresses the cartilage tear, but it can also restore the knee’s structural integrity, reducing discomfort and improving functionality. Another advantage of the surgery is that it can help to minimize the impact of future degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis. This is because it removes damaged cartilage and promotes long-term joint health. If you’re experiencing lingering knee discomfort and reduced mobility, it’s essential to book a consultation with us.
Why Choose Mattalino Orthopaedic for Your Surgery?
Our founder, Dr. Mattalino, has over 25 years of experience in addressing orthopaedic injuries, including meniscus repair surgery. A renowned orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Mattalino has treated patients from all walks of life, from professional baseball players to local Phoenix residents. From your first consultation to surgery and post-surgery care, Dr Mattalino and our team will be with you every step of the way. Your health is our priority and we are committed to helping you get back on your feet.
Find Out More
If you’re experiencing chronic and debilitating knee discomfort, have restricted or limited movement, or are constantly hearing popping or cracking sounds, you may benefit from meniscus surgery. Your knee health is important to us and we are here to help you regain full mobility and improve your quality of life. Get in touch with our friendly team at Mattalinio Orthopaedic in Phoenix, AZ, to book a consultation with orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Mattalino today.
