Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair Surgery Patient Guide

Arthroscopic meniscus repair surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to repair a torn meniscus in the knee. It aims to reduce pain, restore knee stability, and help patients return to daily activities more comfortably. This guide explains how to prepare before surgery, what to expect in the hospital, and the key recovery steps after the procedure in Singapore.

Meniscus Surgery Preparation, Procedure and Recovery

1.  Preparing for Surgery

• Medical Preparation:
  • Complete all pre-surgery tests (e.g., blood work, MRI) as directed by your surgeon.
  • Discuss all medications with your doctor; you may need to stop blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Report any health conditions, allergies, or recent infections to your surgeon.
• Physical Preparation:
  • Engage in pre-surgery exercises (if recommended) to strengthen quadriceps and hamstrings, aiding recovery.
  • Practice using crutches to prepare for post-surgery mobility.
  • Maintain a healthy diet and stop smoking to support healing.
• Home Preparation:
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist for 1–2 days post-surgery.
  • Set up a recovery area with essentials (e.g., bed, ice packs, pillows for leg elevation).
  • Remove tripping hazards (e.g., loose rugs) to ensure safe movement with crutches.
• Logistics:
  • Pack a small bag with comfortable clothes, toiletries, ID, and insurance details.
  • Follow fasting instructions (typically no food or drink after midnight before surgery).

2.  About the Surgery and Potential Complications

• Procedure Overview:
  • Arthroscopic meniscus repair takes about 45-60 minutes, usually under general or regional anaesthesia.
  • The surgeon uses small incisions and an arthroscope (tiny camera) to repair the torn meniscus with sutures or anchors, preserving as much tissue as possible.
  • The goal is to restore knee stability and function while reducing pain.
• Potential Complications (rare but possible):
  • Infection: Occurs in <1% of cases; treated with antibiotics or, rarely, additional surgery.
  • Blood Clots: Low risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT); managed with early movement or medications.
  • Meniscus Re-tear: The repair may fail if stressed too early, requiring further treatment.
  • Stiffness or Pain: May persist if rehabilitation is not followed.
  • Nerve Damage: Rare, but may cause temporary numbness or weakness.
  • Your surgical team will take steps to minimize these risks.

3.  What to Expect in the Hospital

• Length of Stay: Usually a day surgery, but some patients stay one night, depending on recovery.
• Post-Surgery:
  • You will wake in a recovery room, monitored for vital signs.
  • Pain will be managed with medications (e.g., oral painkillers or injections). o A physical therapist may teach you basic exercises or crutch use before discharge.
• Daily Routine:
  • Your knee may be in a brace or wrapped to reduce swelling.
  • Ice packs and elevation will help control swelling.
  • Nurses will check your incision and ensure you’re stable for discharge.
• Discharge Planning:
  • You will receive instructions on wound care, medications, and physical therapy.
  • Discharge occurs once you’re alert, can move with crutches, and have stable vital signs.

4.  What to Expect After Discharge

• Recovery Timeline:
  • First 1–2 Weeks: Focus on rest, icing, and elevation to reduce swelling; limited weight-bearing.
  • Weeks 3–6: Begin physical therapy to regain range of motion; transition from crutches to walking.
  • 2–4 Months: Gradual return to light activities (e.g., walking, cycling).
  • 6–9 Months: Full return to sports or high-impact activities, if cleared by your surgeon.
• At Home:
  • Pain and Swelling: Normal for 1–2 weeks; use prescribed pain medications, ice (20 minutes every 2–3 hours), and elevate your leg.
  • Mobility: Use crutches and a knee brace (if prescribed); follow weight-bearing restrictions (often partial or none for 4–6 weeks).
  • Physical Therapy: Start within days; attend sessions (2–3 times per week) and do home exercises to restore strength and flexibility.
  • Wound Care: Keep incisions clean and dry; monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, fever).
• Lifestyle Adjustments:
  • Avoid twisting, pivoting, or high-impact activities until cleared (usually 4–6 months).
  • Use assistive devices (e.g., shower chair) to prevent falls.
  • Follow a balanced diet to support healing.
• Follow-Up:
  • Attend follow-up appointments (typically 1–2 weeks post-surgery) to monitor progress.
  • Contact your doctor immediately if you experience fever, severe pain, excessive swelling, or calf pain (possible blood clot).

Final Tips:

• Stick to your physical therapy plan for the best outcome.
• Be patient; recovery takes time but significantly improves knee function.
• Contact your healthcare team with any concerns.

Wishing you a successful surgery and smooth recovery!