Best Doctor List Near You for Meniscectomy in Brookline

Meniscectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or part of a torn meniscus in the knee is removed. The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia), helping to stabilize the knee and distribute weight evenly across the joint. Meniscectomy is typically performed when a meniscus tear causes pain, swelling, or knee dysfunction that does not respond to conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or medication. Tears can occur due to sports injuries, trauma, or age-related degeneration of the cartilage. There are two main types of meniscectomy: partial, where only the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed, and total, where the entire meniscus is excised. Although meniscectomy can alleviate symptoms and restore knee function, it carries potential complications. Removing part or all of the meniscus can lead to changes in the biomechanics of the knee, increasing the risk of early osteoarthritis due to the loss of shock absorption. Other possible complications include infection, blood clots, and stiffness or reduced range of motion in the knee joint. Patients may also experience persistent pain or swelling if the procedure does not fully resolve the underlying issue. Post-surgical rehabilitation, including physical therapy, is important for regaining strength and mobility in the knee. While meniscectomy can be effective, newer techniques like meniscus repair are sometimes preferred, especially in younger patients, to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible and reduce long-term risks.