SPORTS INJURIES
Meniscal Injuries & Repair
A meniscal tear is one of the most frequent causes of knee pain and mechanical instability. A torn meniscus compromises the knee’s natural shock absorption and can occur from a sporting pivot or gradual wear. Dr David Kitchen provides specialised assessment for meniscal injuries at the sportsmed Stepney & Henley Beach clinics, for tailored repair and management strategies.
What is a Meniscal Injury?
The menisci are two C-shaped wedges of tough, fibrous cartilage that sit between your thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). They act as essential buffers, distributing weight across the joint and protecting the underlying bone from wear.
Meniscal injuries range from small degenerative fraying to significant traumatic tears. Many patients report a sharp pain along the joint line, often accompanied by a sensation of the knee catching or locking. This occurs because a torn fragment can interfere with the smooth gliding of the joint.
A specific, serious subtype is the meniscus root tear, where the attachment point of the cartilage to the bone is compromised. Without this essential attachment, the meniscus can't distribute your weight properly and can lead to accelerated cartilage wear and joint pain if the root isn't surgically stabilised.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Meniscal Repair?
Some patients manage effectively with targeted physiotherapy. However, surgical repair or management is considered when:
- Mechanical symptoms, such as locking, clicking or giving way, interfere with daily life
- Persistent pain prevents a return to work or sport
- The tear is in the red zone (the outer edge with good blood supply) where Dr David Kitchen can suture the tissue for biological healing
- A meniscus root tear is identified, which threatens the long-term health of the knee joint
- Conservative treatments, like rest and strengthening, are not providing relief
A detailed clinical assessment at our Stepney or Henley Beach clinics, supported by imaging, is necessary before making a treatment decision. Dr David Kitchen will discuss all surgical and non-surgical options with you.
Potential Benefits of Meniscal Repair
Shock Absorption
Preserves the natural cushioning to protect the joint surface.
Increased Knee Stability
Reduces the mechanical catching or locking within the knee and the feeling of it giving way.
Joint Health and Preservation
Lowers the risk of developing early-onset osteoarthritis (compared to removal).
Improved Comfort
Supports more movement control and can improve comfort levels during walking and stairs.
About the Surgery
Meniscal surgery is performed arthroscopically (also known as keyhole surgery). The minimally invasive technique involves two or three small incisions, each about the size of a buttonhole. Dr David Kitchen inserts a HD camera to see and assess the tear to determine the best course of action:
Meniscal Repair
If the tissue is healthy and the blood supply is adequate, the tear is sutured back together using specialised anchors or stitches.
Partial Meniscectomy
If the tear is in an area that cannot heal, the unstable fragments are carefully trimmed away to smooth the joint surface.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia at our surgical locations at Burnside Hospital Stepney, Ashford Hospital and Western Hospital. Most patients can return home the same day.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timeline depends very much on if the meniscus was repaired or trimmed. A repair requires more protection to allow the tissue to knit back together.
Day
1 - 14
Early Recovery
Focus is on swelling control and wound healing. If you had a repair, you may need a brace and crutches to limit weight-bearing.
Week
2 - 6
Protection
For repairs, range of motion is gradually increased under strict guidance from our care team.
For trimming (meniscectomy), most patients are walking again by this stage.
Week
6 - 12
Strengthening
We introduce functional exercises in a controlled space at our Stepney clinic to help rebuild the quadriceps and hamstrings.
Month
3 - 6
Return to Activity
A gradual return to running and sport begins once strength testing benchmarks are met.
*Timelines vary based on the complexity of the specific tear.
Risks & Complications
While arthroscopic knee surgery is common, it is important to understand the potential risks:
Frequently Asked Questions
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Focused care for your active lifestyle.
Consulting at sportsmed Stepney & Henley Beach · A GP referral is required.