Our Summary

This study looks at the long-term effects of knee cartilage defects in patients who have had a type of knee surgery called arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy, which is often used to treat tears in the knee’s medial meniscus. The team analyzed the medical data of 46 patients who had this surgery between 1991 and 2008, and found that those who also had cartilage damage in the knee’s medial compartment had worse clinical and radiological outcomes than those who didn’t have any cartilage damage. This suggests that surgeons should be very careful when considering this type of surgery for patients with cartilage damage. The study also found that in the group with cartilage damage, there was a negative correlation between body mass index (BMI) and post-operative scores, meaning those with higher BMIs had worse outcomes. However, there was no such correlation in the group without cartilage damage.

FAQs

  1. What is arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy and when is it used?
  2. How does existing cartilage damage in the knee’s medial compartment impact the outcomes of arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy?
  3. Is there a correlation between body mass index (BMI) and post-operative outcomes for patients who have undergone arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a meniscectomy to maintain a healthy weight to improve post-operative outcomes. They may also advise the patient to follow a rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve joint stability. Additionally, the doctor may recommend avoiding high-impact activities that could put stress on the knee joint to prevent further damage.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for meniscectomy are those who have a tear in the meniscus that is causing persistent pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the knee. They may have tried conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications without success. Additionally, patients who have mechanical symptoms such as locking or catching in the knee joint may also be recommended for meniscectomy. It is important for surgeons to carefully assess each patient’s individual case and consider factors such as the extent of the tear, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall knee health before recommending surgery.

Timeline

  1. Before meniscectomy:
  • Patient experiences knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected knee.
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as MRI to confirm a tear in the meniscus.
  • Orthopedic surgeon recommends arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy as the treatment option.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and prepares for surgery.
  1. Day of meniscectomy:
  • Patient undergoes arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy procedure under anesthesia.
  • Surgeon removes the torn portion of the meniscus through small incisions in the knee.
  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.
  1. After meniscectomy:
  • Patient experiences pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee post-operatively.
  • Patient follows a rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility in the knee.
  • Patient may use crutches or a knee brace for support during the initial recovery period.
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  • Patient gradually resumes daily activities and physical therapy to improve knee function.
  • Patient may experience long-term effects such as cartilage damage in the knee’s medial compartment, which can impact clinical and radiological outcomes.
  • Surgeons should be cautious when considering this surgery for patients with cartilage damage, as it may result in worse outcomes for those individuals.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a meniscectomy?
  2. How long is the recovery process after a meniscectomy and what can I expect in terms of pain and mobility?
  3. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery and if so, for how long?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered before opting for a meniscectomy?
  5. How likely is it that I will develop osteoarthritis in the future after having a meniscectomy?
  6. Will I be able to return to my normal activities, such as sports or exercise, after the surgery?
  7. Are there any specific factors, such as cartilage damage or BMI, that could affect my outcome after a meniscectomy?
  8. How many meniscectomies have you performed and what is your success rate with this procedure?
  9. Is there a possibility of needing further surgeries or treatments in the future after a meniscectomy?
  10. Can you provide me with any information or resources to help me make an informed decision about undergoing a meniscectomy?

Reference

Authors: Eroğlu ON, Asma A, Armağan M, Pınar H. Journal: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2023 Jan;31(1):229-234. doi: 10.1007/s00167-022-07086-0. Epub 2022 Aug 9. PMID: 35947157