A torn meniscus is a common knee injury. The meniscus is a crescent-shaped piece of cartilage that serves as a cushion between your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). A meniscus tear may occur suddenly, such as when you twist your knee, or it can occur gradually over time. When you tear your meniscus, you may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness. If the tear is severe, you may not be able to move your knee. Meniscectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the meniscus. If you have a torn meniscus, your doctor may recommend a meniscectomy to remove the damaged tissue. However, you need to consult with a specialist in Meniscectomy Chula Vista. Here are some things you need to consider before undergoing a meniscectomy.
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Age
Your age can play a role in whether or not you need a meniscectomy. If you’re younger than 40, you may be able to have the damaged tissue repaired. In older adults, the meniscus often deteriorates and wears away. As we age, the cartilage becomes thinner and less able to absorb shock. This makes it more likely that a tear will occur.
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Activity level
Your activity level also impacts your likelihood of tearing your meniscus. If you participate in high-impact activities, such as running or jumping, you’re more likely to injure your meniscus. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, you’re less likely to injure your meniscus.
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Location of the tear
The location of the tear is another crucial factor to consider. Tears that occur on the meniscus’s outer edge are more likely to heal. Tears in the inner two-thirds of the meniscus are less likely to recover. This is because there’s a poor blood supply to this meniscus area.
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The severity of the injury
The severity of the injury will also play a role in your decision to have a meniscectomy. If you have suffered an injury, such as a sports injury, that has caused a complete tear of the meniscus, you may need surgery. If the tear is small and does not cause pain or instability, you may be able to treat it with conservative measures, such as rest, ice, and physical therapy. Additionally, if you have a degenerative tear, a small tear that occurs over time, you may not need surgery.
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Pain Level
Your pain level is another crucial factor to consider. If you’re experiencing pain, particularly when walking or bearing weight on your knee, you may need surgery. However, if the pain is mild and does not interfere with your daily activities, you may be able to treat it with conservative measures. You should note that you may experience some pain even after a successful surgery.
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Lifestyle
Your lifestyle is another factor to consider. If you participate in high-impact activities, such as running or jumping, you’re more likely to injure your meniscus. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, you’re less likely to injure your meniscus.
In summary, a meniscectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the meniscus. If you have a torn meniscus, your doctor may recommend a meniscectomy to remove the damaged tissue. However, there are many factors to consider before undergoing surgery, such as age, activity level, and injury severity.