Arthroscopic knee surgery is used to treat meniscal tears, either by repairing and suturing the meniscus to restore it, or by removing only the damaged portion while preserving the healthy tissue.
The decision between repair and removal depends on:

• The type of tear
• Its location
• The patient’s age
• The degree of blood supply to the meniscus

This procedure is considered minimally invasive and is performed using a camera and precise instruments without opening the knee joint.

Symptoms That Require Surgical Intervention:

• Persistent pain despite conservative treatment
• Locking or “catching” of the knee joint during movement
• Chronic knee swelling
• A sensation of clicking or instability inside the joint
• Limited range of motion or inability to bend the knee normally

Diagnostic Steps:

• Clinical examination to determine the type of tear
• MRI scan to identify the shape and location of the tear
• Comprehensive evaluation of the entire knee joint before surgery

Types of Arthroscopic Surgical Intervention:

First: Meniscus Repair

• Used when the tear is located in the outer (peripheral) part of the meniscus where blood supply is good
• The tear is sutured using special stitches or fixation devices inside the joint
• Best suited for younger patients and physically active individuals

Second: Partial Meniscectomy

• Used when the tear is not repairable or located in an area with poor blood supply
• Only the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed while preserving its overall shape
• Allows for faster recovery but may accelerate the development of knee osteoarthritis in the future

Postoperative Care – Instructions and Tips:

• Rest, elevate the leg, and limit movement during the first week
• Use ice packs to reduce swelling
• Commit to a gradual physical therapy program
• Return to daily activities within 2–4 weeks (depending on the procedure)
• Return to sports within 6–12 weeks in cases of meniscus repair
• Avoid deep knee bending or squatting temporarily