Overview

Your knee joints have two c-shaped wedges of cartilage called menisci (singular, meniscus).  These cushion the bones in your joint, absorb shock, and allow for smooth movement.  Motions like twisting the knee can tear your meniscus.  Arthroscopic surgery can help.

Preparation

To start the procedure, you are anesthetized. The surgeon makes several small openings in your skin. A viewing device called an arthroscope is placed through one of the openings. The other openings are for the surgical tools.

Repair

The surgeon inspects your knee joint and removes any loose bone or tissue fragments .  The surgeon evaluates your meniscus and either sutures, anchors, or partially removes your damaged cartilage.

End of Procedure and Aftercare

At the end of the procedure, your incisions are closed and your knee is bandaged.  After a brief period of observation, you will be discharged to go home.   Your doctor will create a post-surgery treatment plan that will likely include physical therapy.