Meniscus Tear Surgery and Knee Arthroscopy in Surat

The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage disc that acts as a shock absorber between the thigh bone and shin bone. Tears most commonly occur during sports involving sudden twisting or pivoting of the knee — such as football, cricket or running — or from direct impact. In older adults, the meniscus can become less resilient over time, making degenerative tears possible with relatively minor stress or squatting movements.

Common symptoms include pain along the inner or outer joint line of the knee, swelling (which may develop gradually over a day or two after the injury), a feeling of the knee locking or giving way, and difficulty fully bending or squatting. Some tears cause a clicking or catching sensation. Symptoms vary with the location, pattern and size of the tear.

No. Not every meniscus tear requires surgery. Small, partial tears in the outer vascular zone of the meniscus may heal with physiotherapy, rest and guided rehabilitation. However, certain tear patterns — such as a bucket-handle tear causing locking, or tears that have not settled after conservative management — often require arthroscopic surgery. The decision is made after reviewing the MRI and conducting a thorough clinical examination.

Meniscus repair stitches the torn tissue back together to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible; it is generally suited to tears in the vascular (outer) zone of younger, active patients where healing potential is good. Partial meniscectomy removes the damaged fragment of the meniscus while keeping the healthy tissue intact; it is appropriate for degenerative or complex tears where repair is not feasible. The choice depends on the tear type, location, patient age and activity level — all assessed at consultation.

Recovery timelines vary by procedure. After a partial meniscectomy, many patients can return to light activity within a few weeks. Meniscus repair requires a longer protected recovery period to allow the stitched tissue to heal, with a more gradual return to sport. Exact timelines and physiotherapy plans are discussed at consultation based on your individual procedure and activity goals.

Knee arthroscopy is performed under anaesthesia, so there is no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is managed with prescribed medications and typically settles within a few days. Most patients are able to mobilise with support on the same day or the day after surgery. The keyhole (arthroscopic) approach involves small incisions, which generally means less post-operative discomfort compared with open surgery.

OPD consultations are available at Mahavir Hospital, Athwa Gate, Mon–Sat 4:00–6:00 PM and at Prish Hospital, Vesu, Mon–Sat 12:00–2:00 PM. Book via WhatsApp at +91 89808 22922.