Our Summary

The research paper examines the differences between two types of knee surgery: meniscal repair and meniscectomy, in terms of rates of repeat surgery, complications within 30 days of surgery, and cost. It uses data from a large insurance database to compare the outcomes of these surgeries. Meniscectomy involves removing part or all of a damaged meniscus in the knee, while meniscal repair involves stitching the torn meniscus back together.

The study found that fewer patients needed repeat surgery after a meniscal repair compared to a meniscectomy. However, there was a slightly higher rate of complications within 30 days after a meniscal repair. On the cost side, meniscal repair was more expensive than meniscectomy.

So, the study suggests that while meniscal repair results in fewer repeat surgeries, it does have a slightly higher risk of early complications and costs more.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between meniscal repair and meniscectomy?
  2. Which surgery type had a higher rate of repeat surgeries according to the study?
  3. How do the costs of meniscal repair and meniscectomy compare based on the research findings?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about meniscectomy is to follow a proper rehabilitation program after the surgery. This may include physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, as well as gradually increasing activity levels to regain full range of motion and function in the knee. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s recommendations and guidelines to ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended meniscectomy are those who have a torn meniscus in the knee that cannot be repaired through stitching. This may be due to factors such as the location or size of the tear, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. Patients with degenerative meniscal tears or tears in the avascular zone (where blood supply is limited) are often better candidates for meniscectomy rather than meniscal repair. Additionally, patients with complex tears or tears in multiple locations may also be recommended for meniscectomy. Ultimately, the decision on whether to undergo meniscectomy or meniscal repair should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on the individual patient’s specific circumstances and goals for recovery.

Timeline

Before a meniscectomy:

  1. Patient experiences knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
  2. Patient undergoes physical examination and imaging tests (such as MRI) to diagnose the meniscus tear.
  3. Patient discusses treatment options with their orthopedic surgeon, including meniscectomy.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparation, including blood tests and medication adjustments.
  5. Patient signs consent forms and receives pre-operative instructions.

After a meniscectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the meniscectomy surgery, which typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.
  3. Patient experiences post-operative pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee.
  4. Patient follows a rehabilitation program, including physical therapy and exercises to regain strength and flexibility in the knee.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the orthopedic surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  6. Patient gradually returns to normal activities and sports, with some restrictions on high-impact activities.
  7. Patient may experience long-term effects of meniscectomy, such as increased risk of developing arthritis in the knee.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a meniscectomy procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery period after a meniscectomy surgery?
  3. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  4. What are the chances of needing repeat surgery after a meniscectomy compared to other treatment options?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments to meniscectomy that I should consider?
  6. How will a meniscectomy affect my long-term knee health and function?
  7. What can I do to help prevent future knee injuries after a meniscectomy surgery?
  8. How soon after the surgery can I return to my normal activities, such as sports or exercise?
  9. Are there any specific exercises or rehabilitation protocols I should follow post-surgery?
  10. What is the expected outcome and success rate of a meniscectomy for my specific knee condition?

Reference

Authors: Sochacki KR, Varshneya K, Calcei JG, Safran MR, Abrams GD, Donahue J, Sherman SL. Journal: Am J Sports Med. 2020 Aug;48(10):2353-2359. doi: 10.1177/0363546520935453. Epub 2020 Jul 15. PMID: 32667826