Meniscus Repair in Turkey

What is Meniscus Repair?

Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure designed to fix tears in the meniscus. Unlike removing the damaged portion (meniscectomy), meniscus repair focuses on preserving the natural cartilage. This approach promotes healing, helps maintain knee stability, and prevents long-term complications like arthritis.

During the procedure, surgeons typically use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. This involves making small incisions and using a camera to guide the repair. To promote natural healing and increase the likelihood of full recovery, the meniscus's ripped edges are stitched back together. Meniscus repair is especially effective for younger, active individuals or those with tears in well-vascularized areas of the meniscus.

Signs You Might Need Meniscus Repair

A meniscus tear can cause various symptoms, such as:

• Pain in the knee, especially during twisting or bending motions.
• Swelling or stiffness that worsens over time.
• A feeling of the knee locking or catching.
• Difficulty fully straightening the leg.

If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to consult an orthopedic specialist. The diagnosis can be verified by an MRI or other imaging procedures and help determine if meniscus repair is the right treatment for you.

The Meniscus Repair Procedure

You can return home the same day after a meniscus repair because it is usually an outpatient treatment. Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens:

• Pre-surgery evaluation: Your doctor will review your medical history and perform imaging tests to assess the tear’s location and severity. Tears in areas with good blood supply are more likely to heal with repair.
• Surgical process: The surgeon inserts an arthroscope, a narrow tube equipped with a camera, after making tiny incisions around the knee. Using specialized tools, the torn meniscus is stitched together. In some cases, additional techniques, like anchors, may be used to hold the cartilage in place.
• Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is used, depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation.
• Duration: Depending on how complicated the tear is, the operation typically takes a couple of hours.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from meniscus repair surgery requires patience and commitment to rehabilitation. While every patient’s recovery timeline may vary, here’s what to expect:

1. Initial healing phase (Weeks 1-3):

• Crutches are used to prevent weight from being placed on the knee.
• Ice packs are applied to lessen discomfort and swelling.
• Wearing a knee brace to protect the repair.

2. Physical therapy phase (Weeks 4-12):

• Gradual introduction of range-of-motion exercises.
• Strengthening exercises for the quadriceps and hamstrings.
• Supervised physical therapy sessions to restore mobility.

3. Full recovery (3-6 months):

• Return to low-impact activities like walking or swimming.
• Gradual reintroduction of sports or high-impact activities with your doctor’s approval.

Benefits of Meniscus Repair Surgery

Meniscus repair offers several advantages over other treatments:

• Preservation of the meniscus: By repairing rather than removing the cartilage, the knee’s natural cushioning and stability are maintained.
• Reduced risk of arthritis: Preserving the meniscus lowers the chances of developing arthritis later in life.
• Restored knee function: When mobility is restored through proper rehabilitation, you can resume your regular activities and sports.
• Long-term benefits: Although recovery may take longer compared to meniscectomy, the outcomes are more durable and beneficial in the long run.

Potential Risks and Complications

While meniscus repair is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. These include:

• Swelling or stiffness in the knee.
• Temporary numbness around the incision site.
• Re-tearing of the meniscus if post-surgery guidelines aren’t followed.
• Rare side effects, including blood clots or infections.

These risks can be significantly lowered by selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon. It’s also essential to follow your doctor’s recovery plan carefully.

Cost of Meniscus Repair in Turkey

Meniscus repair costs can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the injury, the surgeon’s expertise, and the facility’s location. International patients find meniscus repair to be an appealing alternative because treatment is substantially less expensive in Turkey than in many Western nations.

Turkey is an attractive choice for orthopedic surgery because of its advanced medical facilities, skilled surgeons, and affordable prices. Among these choices, Istanbul Med Assist stands out for providing customized treatment plans that incorporate accommodation, airport transportation, and translation assistance in addition to the actual surgery.

Conclusion

Meniscus repair is a highly effective procedure for treating knee injuries while preserving the joint’s natural function. With advances in surgical techniques, recovery is smoother, and long-term outcomes are better than ever. Turkey offers world-class care for meniscus repair at a fraction of the cost found elsewhere.

Istanbul Med Assist stands out as a trusted provider of orthopedic care in Turkey. They offer personalized treatment plans, advanced surgical techniques, and comprehensive support for international patients, including travel and accommodation arrangements.