Description

Meniscus injuries

Menisci are special cartilage-like structures in the form
of a half-moon with one inside and outside of the knee in order to reduce the
friction between the upper and lower bone surfaces that make up the knee joint,
to facilitate movements and to reduce the pressure on the joint surface.

Menisci can be torn by sudden strain such as sports injury, impact, or a reverse movement in young
people, and with a simpler strain as a result of long-term abrasions in older ages.

If the tear is large or continues to cause discomfort despite conservative treatment, arthroscopic
intervention is required. If the shape of the tear is suitable in young
patients, the meniscus tear is tried to be repaired. If the age is
advanced and the tear shape is not suitable for repair, the torn part of the
meniscus is removed by cleaning with arthroscopic instruments. These
surgeries are performed without opening the knee, with small incisions, by
inserting instruments of 3-4 mm diameter into the knee through small holes. The
patient stays in the hospital for a maximum of 1 day, if the meniscus is not
repaired and the torn part is removed, the patient can immediately step on his
leg. Auxiliary equipment such as a cane and crutches may be required for
up to 1 week. If the meniscus is repaired, the patient may need to use
crutches for 5-6 weeks.