Our Summary

This research looked at the changes in the use and payment for a type of knee surgery called a meniscectomy among Medicare patients in the US from 2013 to 2021. The study found that the number of these surgeries has decreased by around 55% over this period. The amount of money that doctors receive for performing these surgeries also decreased, by between 9.3% and 12.5%.

The study also looked at differences in these trends across the country. It found that in 2021, the most surgeries were performed in the South, despite it having the lowest average payment per surgery.

Additionally, the research found that the way doctors work has also been changing. Doctors are performing more total services per patient, while the number of different services they offer has decreased. The study also found that the patients having these surgeries were healthier in 2021 compared to 2013.

This information is important as it shows how the use and payment for meniscectomy surgeries has changed over time. These changes might be related to new evidence about the benefits and risks of these surgeries, especially for older patients, and new rules about how much Medicare pays for these surgeries.

FAQs

  1. How has the number of meniscectomy surgeries among Medicare patients changed from 2013 to 2021?
  2. How has the payment received by doctors for performing meniscectomy surgeries changed over the same period?
  3. What were the findings regarding the health of patients undergoing these surgeries in 2021 compared to 2013?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about meniscectomy is to follow the post-operative rehabilitation plan carefully. This may include physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, as well as instructions on when to gradually return to activities such as walking, running, and sports. Adhering to the rehabilitation plan can help improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can also support the healing process after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a meniscectomy are those with a torn meniscus in the knee, which is a common injury that can occur from sports or other physical activities. Meniscectomy is usually recommended when conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications have not been effective in relieving symptoms.

The study mentioned above found that the patients having these surgeries in 2021 were healthier compared to those in 2013. This suggests that doctors are likely recommending meniscectomy surgeries to patients who are more likely to have successful outcomes and fewer complications.

Overall, meniscectomy surgeries are typically recommended for patients with symptomatic meniscal tears who have not responded to conservative treatments and are in good overall health. It is important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine if a meniscectomy is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before meniscectomy:

  • Patient experiences knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion
  • Doctor conducts physical examination, imaging tests (such as MRI), and possibly a trial of conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication
  • If conservative treatments are ineffective, doctor recommends meniscectomy as a surgical option

After meniscectomy:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to remove part or all of the damaged meniscus
  • Recovery period includes physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the knee
  • Patient may experience temporary pain and swelling post-surgery
  • Over time, patient gradually returns to normal activities with improved knee function and reduced pain

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about meniscectomy include:

  1. Is a meniscectomy the best treatment option for my knee injury?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a meniscectomy?
  3. What is the success rate of meniscectomy surgery in terms of pain relief and improved function?
  4. What is the recovery process like after a meniscectomy surgery?
  5. Are there alternative treatments or therapies that I could consider before opting for surgery?
  6. How many meniscectomy surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  7. What is the expected outcome in terms of pain relief and improved mobility after the surgery?
  8. How long will it take for me to fully recover and return to normal activities after the surgery?
  9. Are there any specific rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy that I should follow post-surgery?
  10. What are the long-term implications of having a meniscectomy, especially as I age?

Reference

Authors: Gill VS, Haglin JM, Tummala SV, Iturregui J, Economopoulos KJ, Chhabra A. Journal: Arthroscopy. 2024 Nov;40(11):2717-2726. doi: 10.1016/j.arthro.2024.01.039. Epub 2024 Feb 8. PMID: 38336106