A tear in the meniscus cartilage can become a serious knee problem. Meniscus tears frequently need surgery, but the surgery is a common procedure and the recovery period is uncomplicated.
Meniscus Repair
Sometimes the meniscus cartilage can be repaired during surgery. This happens when the damage occurs in the part of the meniscus that can receive blood flow.
Meniscectomy
If the damage has occurred in a part of the meniscus that receives no blood flow, which is most of the cartilage, the torn part of the cartilage will have to be removed.
Time Frame
Meniscus surgery can be completed in roughly two hours, and you can return home the same day.
Assistive Devices
A person who has had meniscus surgery will need to use assistive devices such as crutches or a walker for several weeks after the surgery, although usually no more than four to six weeks. You may also be required to wear a knee brace.
Return to Activity
After three or four weeks, motion while only wearing the knee brace may be possible. After three or four months, light activity without the brace may be possible.
References
Writer Bio
Amber D. Walker has been writing professionally since 1989. She has had essays published in "Fort Worth Weekly," "Starsong," "Paper Bag," "Living Buddhism" and more. Walker holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Texas and worked as an English teacher abroad for six years.
Image Credit
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Michael (a.k.a. moik) McCullough