Partial Meniscectomy

Mensiscectomy is defined as cutting out of the meniscus. In a partial meniscectomy, the surgeon will remove as small a piece of the meniscus as allowed. Meniscal fragments that are not stable will be taken out and the left over meniscus edges will be smoothed so that there are no frayed ends.

In a partial meniscectomy, there is a wide range of the quantity of meniscus which is taken out. Sometimes small cutting of a frayed edge to almost taking out the rim. The surgeon is the best person to tell you what was removed and/or what will be removed.  Videos of the procedure are recommended to be maintained for comparison. Knee surgeons will attempt to keep the outside rim. 

If there is a large bucket handle tear where the torn fragment is big and the fibers have been altered, some of the meniscus may need to be taken out.  General or local anesthesia are given for a meniscectomy. Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy usually takes place in an outpatient surgical center.

Partial meniscectomies, if open or arthroscopic, are good at taking out ripped pieces of the meniscus to prevent them from creating pain and obstructring knee action. Partial meniscectomy will maintain larger knee stability and allow a quicker and more total recovery. There is a review which states that fourteen percent of people with partial meniscectomies still had symptoms six or more years after operation.  A partial meniscectomy needs a shorter operating time than a total meniscectomy. There is a faster healing period and function after the operation. Patients with partial mensicectomies may be happier with the results than total meniscectomies.