Not all meniscus surgeries are the same. Learn why saving the meniscus through advanced suturing protects your knee from future arthritis.
Lecturer & Consultant of Orthopedic Surgery (Faculty of Medicine) | Specialist in Knee & Shoulder Surgery
When a meniscus tear causes mechanical symptoms (locking or catching), arthroscopic surgery is required. Dr. Mohamed Labib strongly advocates for "Save the Meniscus" whenever possible.
| Feature | Meniscectomy (Removal) | Meniscus Repair (Suturing) |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | Trimming away the torn, unhealable piece of cartilage. | Suturing the torn edges back together so they can heal. |
| Indications | Tears in the "white zone" (no blood supply), older patients, complex tears. | Tears in the "red-red zone" (good blood supply), young patients, acute tears. |
| Recovery Time | Fast. Walking normally in 1-2 weeks. Return to sports 4-6 weeks. | Slower. Requires crutches/brace for 4-6 weeks. Return to sports 4-5 months. |
| Long-Term Outcome | Higher risk of developing early osteoarthritis in the future. | Preserves the knee shock absorber, greatly reducing arthritis risk. |
Using state-of-the-art arthroscopic techniques, Dr. Labib repairs the meniscus using "all-inside" suturing systems. If the tear is degenerative and unrepairable, he performs a highly selective partial meniscectomy, removing only the damaged tissue while preserving as much healthy cartilage as possible.
Book a consultation with Dr. Labib and get a professional assessment at JointCure Clinic, New Cairo.
Total meniscectomy leads to rapid and severe knee osteoarthritis. Today, we preserve as much as possible.
No. To protect the stitches, you must use crutches and wear a knee brace locked in extension for approx 4 to 6 weeks.
Book your consultation with Dr. Mohamed Labib today and get a professional medical assessment for your condition at our New Cairo clinic.
