Meniscus Root Repair
A specialised arthroscopic procedure to reattach the meniscus at its tibial root — restoring normal load distribution and protecting the knee from progressive arthritis.
What is Meniscus Root Repair?
Meniscus Root Repair addresses a tear at the root attachment of the meniscus — where the cartilage anchors to the tibia (shin bone). When this attachment is torn, the meniscus loses its ability to distribute load across the knee joint, concentrating harmful pressure on the cartilage surface. Root tears occur due to sports injuries, sudden twisting, or degenerative changes. If untreated, they behave similarly to total meniscus loss — rapidly accelerating cartilage wear and early-onset arthritis. Surgical reattachment restores normal knee mechanics and protects the joint long term.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative MRI Assessment
MRI confirms the root tear location, assesses cartilage status, and guides the repair strategy; anaesthesia is administered on the day of surgery.
Arthroscopic Access
Small keyhole incisions allow insertion of the arthroscope, giving the surgeon a clear view of the meniscus root and surrounding joint structures.
Root Tear Identification
The exact site of the root detachment and any associated cartilage or ligament damage are carefully identified and assessed.
Bone Tunnel Preparation
A small bone tunnel is created in the tibia at the original root attachment site to receive the repair sutures securely.
Suture Fixation
Specialised sutures are passed through the torn root and anchored through the tibial tunnel, pulling the meniscus back to its anatomical attachment.
Inspection & Wound Closure
Correct root position and stability are confirmed; incisions are closed and the knee is protected with a brace during the initial healing phase.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Restores the meniscus to its normal load-distributing function
- →Reduces excessive pressure on the knee cartilage surface
- →Prevents accelerated cartilage wear and early-onset arthritis
- →Improves knee stability and reduces pain during weight-bearing
- →Minimally invasive arthroscopic technique — smaller incisions
- →Structured physiotherapy guides a safe, progressive recovery
“A meniscus root tear is often underdiagnosed, yet it can cause the same degree of damage as total meniscus loss if not repaired. Early surgical reattachment can significantly slow arthritis progression and protect the knee joint for the long term.”
— Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu, Senior Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
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