Is meniscus repair done with an arthroscope?

An arthroscope is a slender camera that enters the knee through a small portal. It sends a magnified view to a screen, allowing the surgeon to inspect the meniscus and nearby cartilage, ligaments, and joint surfaces. Repair instruments can pass through additional portals to place stitches or another repair device in the damaged tissue.

Arthroscopy does not mean every meniscus tear can be repaired. The tear’s position, pattern, tissue quality, symptoms, and other knee findings affect whether repair is suitable. A surgeon may repair the meniscus, trim unstable tissue, or recommend another plan after examining the knee.

Before surgery, ask which part of the meniscus is injured, what repair method is planned, and whether you will need crutches or a brace. Follow the prescribed limits on weight-bearing and knee movement while the repair heals. Physiotherapy usually builds motion, thigh strength, balance, and then activity-specific control in stages.

Do not judge readiness by pain alone. Swelling, a limp, reduced strength, or difficulty controlling the knee during a step can signal that rehabilitation needs adjustment.

Contact your surgical team promptly for worsening pain or swelling, increasing redness or drainage from an incision, fever, calf swelling, or new shortness of breath. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or a suddenly cold, pale, or numb leg.

Which tear pattern is being treated, and why is repair preferred? When can I put weight through the leg, bend the knee fully, drive, work, and return to sport? What symptoms should make me pause exercises or contact the clinic?