Meniscus Surgery | Meniscal Tear | Colorado Knee Specialist

Meniscus Surgery Overview

Dr. Millett will recommend surgical repair for a meniscal tear if symptoms are chronic and/or disabling. If the meniscus tear is causing the joint to lock up, then surgery will almost always be needed. In addition, if the tear occurs in the middle or inner region of the meniscus, surgery will also usually be recommended. If meniscus surgery is needed, the procedure will be chosen based on the location of the meniscus tear and it will be performed arthroscopically. The torn portion of the meniscus will typically be repaired using sutures or an absorbable fixation device. These devices join the torn edges of the meniscus so they can heal. Surgery can also take place by:

Pre-Operative Imaging

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Intra-Operative

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Trephination/ Abrasion Technique: This procedure is used for small meniscal tears that are located on the outer area near the meniscus. This area represents a good blood supply and will enhance the healing process quickly. Multiple holes or shavings are made in the torn part of the meniscus to promote the bleeding so that the healing process can begin.
Partial Resection: A partial resection will occur for tears located in the inner 2/3 of the meniscus where there is not a blood supply. The goal is to stabilize the edge of the meniscus by removing only the torn part of the meniscus. If only the inner portion of the meniscus is removed and the meniscus remains mostly intact, the patient usually heals very well and does not develop early arthritis.
Complete Resection: This procedure involves the complete removal of the damaged meniscus. This technique is only performed if absolutely necessary.

Are you a candidate for meniscus surgery?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review ($250).

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

After Meniscus Surgery

Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is often performed on an out-patient basis. Here are some things to remember about what to expect, as well as some helpful hints during the recovery process immediately following the procedure:

After meniscus surgery, it is normal to have swelling and discomfort in the knee for several days. Apply ice bags or use the ice machine you were given to control swelling. Ice should be applied 20-30 minutes at a time, every hour or so. Be sure to protect your skin with a thin cloth. Icing is most important in the first 72 hours, although many people find that continuing it lessens their post-operative pain.

If you had a nerve block during arthroscopic knee surgery, the local anesthetic may keep your leg numb for several hours. You will be given a prescription for pain medication when you are discharged from the hospital. If you find you do not tolerate it well, call our office and we will try another one.

Keep the leg elevated. This will prevent swelling and help decrease pain. The leg must be elevated higher than the level of your heart.

Avoid moving the knee after surgery until you begin physical therapy rehab. Despite limiting the motion in your knee, it’s still important to keep blood circulating in your leg. Pumping your ankles up and down and squeezing your quadricep muscles several times every hour is recommended to help prevent blood clots from forming.

Keep the post-op dressing clean and dry. Unless it becomes wet or too tight because of swelling, leave the bandages in place for at least 2 days, then remove them. Cover the small incisions with waterproof bandages to keep them dry. You may shower, but keep the incisions dry for the first 10-14 days. Do not wet your incisions directly or by submerging (bathing or swimming) until at least 2 weeks post-op.

The sutures are absorbable and do not need to be removed.

Dr. Millett would like to see you back in the office 10-14 days after surgery. If you don’t have your first post-op visit scheduled, call our office (970-479-5871) to make one.

Start your arthroscopic knee surgery post-operative rehabilitation/physical therapy right away. Your physical therapy program is key to a successful outcome. It should be started the day after surgery. A separate prescription will outline the protocol. It often helps to call before surgery to make an appointment with your physical therapist.

Be in the care of a responsible adult.

Abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages and from smoking as these behaviors can impact recovery and delay healing.

You may eat a regular diet, if not nauseated. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids.

Rehabilitation after meniscus surgery can be a lengthy process involving a limitation of activities, physical therapy and rest that will need to take place for a period of months. Specific rehabilitation will vary according to each patient’s needs and you must adhere to your own protocol as established by Dr. Millett and your physical therapist.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

Meniscus Repair