About Meniscus Debridement
Key Highlights
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Minimally invasive procedure with small incisions, leading to less scarring.Performed arthroscopically, allowing for precise visualization and treatment.Aims to relieve knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms like locking.Helps restore normal knee function and range of motion.Typically allows for a quicker recovery compared to open surgery.Can prevent further damage to the knee joint cartilage.liOften performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning no overnight hospital stay is usually required./li/ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Symptomatic meniscal tears causing persistent knee pain.
- Tears that result in knee locking, catching, or giving way.
- Swelling (effusion) in the knee that does not resolve with rest and conservative treatment.
- Limited range of motion in the knee joint due to a meniscal tear.
- Failed non-surgical management, including physical therapy, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Complex or degenerative tears that are not repairable, especially in the inner, avascular zone of the meniscus.
- Bucket-handle tears that are displaced and cause mechanical blockage.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive consultation with the pediatric orthopedic surgeon to discuss symptoms, surgical plan, and expectations.
- Pre-operative medical evaluation, which may include blood tests and an ECG.
- Imaging studies such as an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and assess the tear's location and pattern.
- Discussion of all current medications; some (like blood thinners) may need to be paused before surgery.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure as per anesthesia guidelines.
- Arranging for transportation home after the procedure, as driving is not permitted.
- Preparing the home environment for recovery, including having crutches and ice packs ready.
Risks & possible complications
- Standard surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
- Nerve or blood vessel damage around the knee.
- Persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in the knee.
- Incomplete relief of symptoms or recurrence of symptoms.
- Very rare risk of cartilage damage or complex regional pain syndrome.
- Long-term risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee earlier than usual due to the reduced cushioning of the meniscus.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Immediate post-op: The knee will be bandaged, and crutches are often used for a few days to limit weight-bearing.
- Pain management with prescribed medications and frequent application of ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Elevation of the leg to minimize swelling.
- Initiating physical therapy within a week to restore range of motion, strength, and stability.
- Gradual return to walking and daily activities over 1-2 weeks.
- Avoidance of high-impact sports, running, and jumping for 4-6 weeks or as advised by the surgeon.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress in rehabilitation.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (typically outpatient)
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks for return to full sports
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering meniscus debridement 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 meniscus debridement. 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 meniscus debridement 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 return to full sports | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 280 Thousand – 700 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 4-6 weeks for return to full sports | Know More |
Aarav Brown, a 14-year-old competitive soccer...
Aarav Brown, a 14-year-old competitive soccer player, had always been active and dedicated to his sport. During a crucial tournament, he twisted his knee while pivoting to make a pass. He felt a sharp, immediate pain and a 'pop'. Over the next few weeks, the initial swelling subsided, but he was left with persistent, nagging pain on the inner side of his knee, especially when squatting or twisting. It would occasionally 'catch' or lock, forcing him to stop and straighten it. His pediatric orthopedist, Dr. Evans, explained that an MRI revealed a complex, degenerative tear in the medial meniscus that was not repairable due to its location and pattern. The frayed edges were causing the catching and pain. Dr. Evans recommended an arthroscopic meniscus debridement to trim away the unstable fragments, smooth the remaining meniscus, and hopefully restore pain-free motion. Aarav was nervous about surgery and terrified it would end his soccer dreams. The procedure itself was quick and he went home the same day on crutches. His recovery involved two weeks of strict rest and ice, followed by guided physical therapy to rebuild strength and stability. Within six weeks, he was jogging, and by three months, he was cleared for non-contact drills. The catching sensation was completely gone. Aarav's emotional journey was one of fear transformed into cautious optimism. He learned to listen to his body more and is now back on the field, playing with a renewed appreciation for his health and a smarter approach to his training.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Meniscus Debridement
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform meniscus debridement 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