Meniscus Repair

Meniscus repair is usually performed as a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopy (keyhole surgery). This allows your surgeon to access the knee joint through small incisions.

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. You’ll be given either a general anaesthetic (where you’re asleep).

2. Your surgeon will make 2 to 3 keyhole incisions around your knee.

3. A camera (arthroscope) is inserted to view the inside of the joint.

4. Small surgical tools are used to repair the torn meniscus using stitches or specialised anchors.

5. The incisions are closed with stitches or surgical strips and covered with a dressing.

The procedure usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the type and location of the tear.

In some cases, if the tear cannot be repaired, your surgeon may recommend trimming the damaged part instead. Your consultant will discuss the best approach for your individual case during your consultation.

Meniscus repair is considered a safe and effective procedure, particularly when performed by experienced specialists. However, as with any surgery, there are some risks to be aware of.

These include:

• infection at the surgical site (rare)

• bleeding or swelling in the knee

• stiffness or reduced range of movement

• blood clots in the leg (deep vein thrombosis)

• failure of the repair, meaning the tear does not fully heal

• nerve or blood vessel injury (very rare)

Your consultant will explain these risks clearly and answer any questions before your procedure. They’ll also take steps to reduce your risk of complication wherever possible.

Before your procedure, you’ll attend a consultation with your orthopaedic specialist. They’ll assess your symptoms, review any scans (such as an MRI), and confirm whether surgery is the right option for you.

To help you prepare, you may be advised to:

• stop eating and drinking for several hours before surgery if you’re having a general anaesthetic

• stop smoking - smoking increases the risk of infection and can slow down healing

• temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, if advised

• arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure

• prepare your home for recovery, including easy access to essentials and a safe place to rest

Your consultant will give you clear, personalised instructions to make sure your procedure goes smoothly.

Recovery from meniscus repair takes time, as the cartilage needs to heal properly. Your recovery plan will depend on the type of repair and your overall health.

Immediately after the procedure, you may notice some swelling, stiffness, and mild discomfort. This is normal and should improve over time.

At Welbeck, we support you throughout your recovery with tailored aftercare and follow-up appointments.

What to expect after surgery

• you’ll go home the same day

• your knee may be bandaged, and a brace may be applied, depending on the nature of the tear and repair

• crutches may be needed for up to 6 weeks to limit weight-bearing

• you’ll be given pain relief medication to manage discomfort

Rehabilitation and physiotherapy

It’s important you see your physiotherapist within the first 5 to 10 days after surgery. Your consultant will refer you to a physiotherapist who will guide you through exercises to:

• restore movement in your knee

• strengthen surrounding muscles

• improve balance and stability

It’s important to follow your rehabilitation plan carefully, as this supports healing and reduces the risk of re-injury.

Activity and return to normal life

• most people can return to desk-based work within 2 to 6 weeks

• more physical jobs may require a longer recovery period

• driving is usually possible after a few weeks, once you can safely control your leg

• returning to sports may take 3 to 6 months, depending on your progress

Your consultant will monitor your recovery and advise when it’s safe to increase your activity levels.

Follow-up care

You’ll have a follow-up appointment to check how your knee is healing. If needed, your care plan can be adjusted to support your recovery.

Over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may help manage discomfort, but always follow your consultant’s advice.

Please contact our team for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our orthopaedic specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a meniscus repair, you must be referred by either your GP or an orthopaedic specialist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with an Welbeck orthopaedic specialist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.