Meniscal Tears

Causes, symptoms and arthroscopic surgery

The Role of Menisci in the Knee

The menisci are two crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous structures located between the femur and the tibia. Each knee has two: the medial meniscus, located on the inner side and less mobile - therefore more prone to injury - and the lateral meniscus, on the outer side, which is more flexible and less susceptible to damage.

Their function is crucial for proper joint mechanics: they distribute load between femur and tibia, reduce stress on the cartilage, absorb shocks, and enhance joint stability.

Why Menisci Tear

Meniscal injuries vary depending on their shape and severity. Common types include:

Longitudinal tears, which can evolve into a “bucket handle” tear
Radial tears, which disrupt the internal fibers and impair load distribution
Horizontal tears, often degenerative in nature and sometimes associated with meniscal cysts
Complex tears, which combine multiple patterns and are more common in cases of joint wear and aging

If you're experiencing knee pain, swelling, or limited mobility, you may have a meniscal tear. These vital structures can be damaged by sports injuries, sudden movements, or long-term wear.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options—including arthroscopic surgery—is essential to restore mobility and well-being.

Arthroscopic Meniscus Surgery

When pain, swelling and movement limitations persist, arthroscopic surgery is an effective solution.

Meniscal repair is preferred in young patients and athletes, provided the tear is located in the vascularized (outer) zone of the meniscus. This approach allows for tissue healing and preserves joint function.

After surgery, recovery involves using crutches for a few weeks and a gradual return to sports, usually within three to six months.

If the lesion is located in a non-vascularized area and cannot be repaired, a partial meniscectomy is performed, involving selective removal of the damaged fragment.

In such cases, recovery is quicker: you can walk immediately after the procedure without crutches, resume normal activities in 1–2 weeks, and return to sport in about a month.

Long-Term Effects

Loss of part of the meniscus can accelerate cartilage wear and increase the risk of early-onset knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis). For this reason, meniscal preservation is prioritized in young or athletic patients using repair techniques whenever possible.

A targeted, minimally invasive procedure allows relatively fast recovery and a return to daily and athletic activities.

If your knee is painful and a meniscal tear is suspected, a specialist evaluation is the first step toward the most appropriate treatment.

F.A.Q.

1. How can I prevent another meniscal injury?

Strengthening the thigh and knee muscles, improving movement techniques, and using proper footwear help reduce injury risk. A good warm-up before physical activity and listening to your body - avoiding excessive effort or abrupt movements - also help protect the meniscus from further trauma.

2. After meniscus surgery, how long before I can play sports again?

Recovery time depends on the type of procedure. After a partial meniscectomy, light activity can resume in 4–6 weeks. For a meniscal repair, recovery is longer, with return to contact sports expected around 5–6 months.
Rehabilitation is key to restoring strength and stability.