Meniscus and ACL Repairs
At Redwood Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of meniscus and ACL tears. Our dedicated team of orthopaedic surgeons is board-certified experts who use the most advanced diagnostic tools and treatment modalities to get you on your feet again.
What Is a Meniscus Tear?Â
There are three bones within the knee joint: the femur, tibia, and patella. The ends of these three bones are covered by a smooth material called cartilage. The cartilage is what cushions the bones and allows for full range of motion of the knee. Between these three bones are also two crescent-like discs known as the menisci. The menisci act as shock absorbers that cushion and protect the lower leg.
What Are the Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus?
Some of the most common symptoms of a torn meniscus include pain, especially when trying to straighten the knee. Other symptoms include:
- Stiffness and swelling
- Catching, clicking, and locking of the knee
- Feelings of instability and weakness
Treatment for a Torn Meniscus
Treatment for a torn meniscus usually involves rest, ice, elevation, and over-the-counter pain medications. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen over time, arthroscopic repair may be recommended.
Arthroscopic meniscus repair is a relatively simple surgical procedure. Under sedation, an arthroscope is inserted into the knee and the torn meniscus is removed. The edges are then sutured back together and the surgical incisions are closed.
Recovery From Meniscus Surgery
Most patients make a full recovery and resume all of their normal activities several weeks after surgery. However, it could take several months to make a full recovery if the meniscus was trimmed and sutured back together.
What Is the ACL?
The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is a ligament that connects the thighbone to the shin and the knee. Most types of ACL injuries happen while playing certain sports, like basketball, football, soccer, tennis, and skiing.
Types of ACL Injuries
Partial ACL Tear
This type of ACL tear happens when the anterior cruciate ligament is partially torn. Some patients with partial ACL tears may experience intermittent or ongoing knee instability, localized pain, and swelling. While some patients respond favorably to non-surgical treatments, such as using a knee brace, surgical repair may be recommended to patients whose symptoms don’t resolve or worsen over time.
Complete ACL Tear
Complete ACL tears occur when the ligament is completely ruptured. This type of injury is often directly related to a sports injury that involves a sudden stop or change in direction. Complete ACL tears can cause extreme pain, swelling, and knee instability. Most people with complete ACL tears cannot bear weight on the affected knee.
Treatment for a Torn ACL
Treatment for a torn ACL will depend on its severity. If it’s only a partial tear, rest, ice, elevation, and over-the-counter medication will be recommended. However, in cases of complete ACL tears or ruptures, surgical intervention may be warranted. During arthroscopic reconstruction, the damaged portion of the ligament is removed and replaced with a new tissue graft.
Recovery From ACL Surgery
It usually takes several months to make a full recovery after surgery. Some patients may also require physical therapy as well.
Whether you’ve sustained an ACL injury or think you’ve torn your meniscus, Redwood Orthopaedic Surgery Associates can help. We provide surgical and non-surgical treatment options in Santa Ana and Petaluma, California. Call us today at 707-544-3400 to learn more about arthroscopic surgery or schedule an appointment.
