Does the meniscus grow back?

The part of the meniscus removed does not grow back, but is replaced by fibrous tissue. There is an increased likelihood of developing osteoarthritis in patients who have undergone complete (total) menisectomy. It is therefore important to leave behind as much of normal meniscus as is possible.

What happens to the knee when the meniscus is removed?

When the torn part of the meniscus is removed, any catching or locking should be gone immediately. Pain is usually minimal by 1 week after surgery. Full motion of the knee returns as the swelling disappears, usually within 4-6 weeks after the surgery.

What happens if I don’t have my meniscus repaired?

If not treated, part of the meniscus may come loose and slip into the joint. You may need surgery to restore full knee function. Untreated meniscus tears can increase in size and lead to complications, such as arthritis.

How can I rebuild my meniscus naturally?

Treating a meniscus tear

1. Rest your knee. Use crutches to avoid any weight bearing on the joint. Avoid any activities that worsen your knee pain.
2. Ice your knee every three to four hours for 30 minutes.
3. Compress or wrap the knee in an elastic bandage to reduce inflammation.
4. Elevate your knee to reduce swelling.

Can you tear your meniscus again after surgery?

If a patient underwent a surgical meniscus repair and still experiences pain and swelling, or if a patient re-tears the cartilage, a revision meniscus repair may be necessary.

Can knee meniscus be replaced?

Meniscal transplant surgery is a type of surgery that replaces your missing or damaged meniscus with a meniscus from a cadaver donor. The surgery usually takes place under general anesthesia. Your knee has 2 wedge-shaped pieces of cartilage, 1 on each side of your knee.

What happens if a torn meniscus doesn’t heal?

If your torn meniscus doesn’t heal properly, your knee won’t be as stable as it was before the injury. That can increase your risk of other knee injuries — like an ACL tear or other torn ligament. How is a meniscus tear diagnosed?

What are my treatment options for a meniscus tear?

Your surgeon’s experience and preference, as well as your age, health, and activity level, can also affect your treatment options. There are two kinds of surgery for a meniscus tear. One kind repairs the tear by sewing it back together. The other kind removes part or all of the meniscus.

What is the meniscus and what does it do?

The meniscus is a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions your knee. Each knee has two menisci (plural of meniscus)-one at the outer edge of the knee and one at the inner edge. The menisci keep your knee steady by balancing your weight across the knee. A torn meniscus can prevent your knee from working right.

Can knee meniscus removal cause arthritis?

The Stone Research Foundation, a non-profit foundation that I chair, has just published a long-term study of 49 patients who developed knee pain and arthritis after having had their meniscus removed years ago.