Meniscus surgery has become a common procedure in the last few decades, with a growing number of people seeking this treatment for meniscus-related problems.

Although meniscus surgery has been proven to be an effective treatment, studies suggest that there is an increased risk of arthritis after meniscus surgery.

What is Meniscus Surgery?

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber. Meniscus surgery involves repairing or removing this cartilage to treat various knee problems.

The procedure is usually recommended when the meniscus is damaged due to injury or wear and tear. There are two types of meniscus surgery: partial meniscectomy and meniscal repair.

Partial Meniscectomy

Partial meniscectomy involves trimming the damaged part of the meniscus. This procedure is usually recommended when the tear is in the outer part of the meniscus, where there is a good blood supply.

The surgeon will remove the damaged part of the meniscus and leave the healthy part intact. Partial meniscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia.

Meniscal Repair

Meniscal repair is recommended when the tear is in the inner part of the meniscus, where there is a poor blood supply. In this procedure, the surgeon will repair the tear by stitching the edges of the meniscus together.

Meniscal repair is a more invasive procedure that requires general anesthesia and a longer recovery time.

Risks of Meniscus Surgery

Although meniscus surgery is generally safe, like all surgeries, there are risks involved. These include:.

Bleeding
Infection
Swelling
Pain
Inability to bear weight on the operated leg

Increased Risk of Arthritis After Meniscus Surgery

A number of studies have shown that there is an increased risk of arthritis after meniscus surgery. Arthritis is a condition in which the joints become inflamed and painful, making it difficult to move.

In some cases, arthritis can lead to a total knee replacement.

The reason behind the increased risk of arthritis after meniscus surgery is not fully understood. However, some researchers suggest that it may be due to the removal of the meniscus.

The meniscus acts as a shock absorber in the knee, and its removal may lead to increased stress on the joint, resulting in the development of arthritis.

Another theory is that meniscus surgery may accelerate the natural aging process in the knee joint. As we age, our joints become less flexible and more prone to injury. Meniscus surgery may speed up this process, leading to the development of arthritis.

Preventing Arthritis After Meniscus Surgery

While there is no sure way to prevent arthritis after meniscus surgery, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:.

Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, which can reduce stress on the joint and prevent the development of arthritis.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress on the knee joint, which can help to prevent arthritis.
Low-impact exercise: Engaging in low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and yoga can help to keep the knee joint flexible and reduce the risk of arthritis.
Hydration: Staying hydrated can help to keep the joints lubricated, which can reduce the risk of arthritis.

Conclusion

Meniscus surgery is a common procedure used to treat knee problems. Although it is generally safe, there is an increased risk of arthritis after meniscus surgery.

The reason for this increased risk is not fully understood, but it may be due to the removal of the meniscus or the acceleration of the natural aging process in the knee joint. Taking steps to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, maintain a healthy weight, engage in low-impact exercise, and stay hydrated can help to reduce the risk of arthritis after meniscus surgery.