About Discoid Meniscectomy
Key Highlights
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Minimally invasive arthroscopic technique with small incisions.Preserves healthy meniscal tissue while removing unstable fragments.Aims to relieve knee pain, locking, and clicking sensations.Restores normal knee biomechanics and function.Typically allows for same-day discharge and faster recovery compared to open surgery.Performed by specialists in pediatric orthopedics familiar with growing anatomy./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Symptomatic discoid lateral meniscus causing persistent knee pain.
- Meniscal tears within a discoid meniscus that do not heal with rest.
- Mechanical symptoms like knee locking, catching, or giving way.
- A noticeable, painful "clunk" with knee motion.
- Failure of conservative management (rest, physical therapy).
- To prevent early-onset osteoarthritis by stabilizing the joint.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive evaluation including physical exam and imaging (MRI).
- Discussion of the procedure, risks, and benefits with the pediatric orthopedic surgeon.
- Pre-operative blood tests and medical clearance as required.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before surgery as instructed.
- Arranging for transportation home post-procedure.
- Acquiring crutches and any necessary post-operative braces.
Risks & possible complications
- Standard surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or blood clots.
- Nerve or blood vessel injury around the knee.
- Persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in the knee.
- Incomplete relief of symptoms or recurrence of tearing.
- Rare risk of damage to the joint surface (articular cartilage).
- Anesthesia-related risks.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol) to manage swelling.
- Use of crutches for a few days to a week for comfort and protection.
- Structured physical therapy to restore range of motion, strength, and stability.
- Gradual return to walking and daily activities over 2-4 weeks.
- Return to sports and high-impact activities typically after 3-6 months, based on surgeon and therapist guidance.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (typically outpatient)
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks for basic activities, 3-6 months for full sports
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering discoid meniscectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform discoid meniscectomy. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for discoid meniscectomy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 80 Thousand – 200 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 4-6 weeks for basic activities, 3-6 months for full sports | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 280 Thousand – 700 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 4-6 weeks for basic activities, 3-6 months for full sports | Know More |
Arjun Garcia, a 14-year-old high school...
Arjun Garcia, a 14-year-old high school freshman and promising midfielder for his soccer team, had always been active. His injury occurred during a seemingly routine practice drill six months ago, when he twisted his knee while pivoting to make a pass. The initial sharp pain subsided, but he was left with a persistent, dull ache and a troubling 'clicking' sensation deep in his knee. It would occasionally lock, forcing him to straighten it with his hands. Despite physical therapy, he couldn't return to full play without pain. An MRI revealed a large, stable flap tear of the medial meniscus, a 'bucket handle' tear. His pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Chen, explained that the torn fragment was acting like a pebble in a hinge, causing the locking and pain. She recommended a partial, or discoid, meniscectomy to trim away the unstable fragment while preserving as much healthy meniscus as possible. Arjun was nervous about surgery but desperate to play again. The arthroscopic procedure was quick, and he was home the same day. The first week was tough with swelling and crutches, but he diligently followed his physical therapy plan. Within six weeks, he was jogging; by three months, he was cleared for non-contact drills. He returned to full soccer at four months, pain-free and without the locking. Emotionally, he went from frustrated and anxious about his athletic future to immensely relieved and confident. The experience taught him patience and the importance of listening to his body.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Discoid Meniscectomy
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform discoid meniscectomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata