Definition

A partial meniscectomy is a procedure that removes the patient's torn meniscus.

Alternative Names

• Meniscal Debridement

Who is a Candidate?

People who have:

• Locking of their knee
• Problems straightening their knee
• A clicking sound or feeling in their knee
• Discomfort caused by injured cartilage

What is a Partial Meniscectomy?

The meniscus is made up of cartilage that helps stabilize and cushion the joint. A meniscus tear is a common knee injury. If the meniscus is torn and cannot be repaired, then a partial meniscectomy is performed.

A meniscectomy is performed by having a surgeon make 2-3 poke holes into the knee. A camera is inserted to view the damaged area. The surgeon will then remove the torn and damaged meniscus. After the surgery, excess fluid is drained and each small hole is closed with a single stitch.

What are the Tear Zones?

• Red Zone - The red zone is located on the outer edge of the meniscus. The tears in the red zone tend to heal quicker because they have access to good blood supply. Small tears can be healed by using non-surgical treatments.
• White Zone - The white zone is located in the outermost edge of the meniscus and does not have a good blood supply. The torn portion may be result in a partial meniscectomy if the conservative treatment fails.
• Red and White Zone - A tear might extend from the red zone to the white zone. An orthopedic surgeon will determine what the best option is to heal the damages. Depending on the blood supply, the meniscus may be repaired or removed.

Rehabilitation/Recovery

The treated knee may need to be braced after surgery. Crutches will be necessary for the next few days after surgery. To minimize pain and swelling, the patient should place ice on the treated knee after surgery. The patient will attend physical therapy sessions to regain their range of motion.

Notify a Physician if the Patient Has

• Swelling or redness of the knee
• Increased pain after surgery
• Signs of infection
• Drainage from the incision
  

9/24/2008