Key Takeaways
- Meniscus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve pain, repair cartilage damage, and restore knee stability.
- Preparing properly before surgery and following a guided recovery plan are key to optimal healing and mobility.
- Most procedures are performed arthroscopically, resulting in smaller incisions, less discomfort, and faster recovery.
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy help rebuild strength and flexibility for long-term joint health.
- Dr. Christopher Swanson, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and sports medicine, offers advanced meniscus surgery and post-operative care in Jacksonville, St. Johns, and Fleming Island, FL. He may also use Enovis® surgical technology to improve precision and support a smoother surgical experience. Schedule your consultation today to start your recovery.
How to Prepare for Meniscus Surgery
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Before scheduling surgery, Dr. Swanson conducts a thorough assessment that may include:
- Physical examination of knee strength and stability
- MRI imaging to confirm tear location and severity
- Review of medical history and activity goals
During this visit, Dr. Swanson discusses treatment options—including whether meniscus repair (stitching torn tissue) or partial meniscectomy (removing damaged fragments) is best suited for the injury.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Patients are advised to:
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications and supplements that may increase bleeding
- Arrange transportation to and from the outpatient surgery center
- Prepare their home with mobility aids, ice packs, and supportive seating
- Follow fasting instructions before anesthesia
Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth and safe surgical experience.
What Happens During Meniscus Surgery
Anesthesia and Incisions
Meniscus surgery is generally performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the procedure. Dr. Swanson makes small incisions around the knee to insert an arthroscope—a slender instrument equipped with a camera and light.
Procedure Overview
Depending on the injury type and location, Dr. Swanson performs one of the following:
| Procedure | Purpose | Ideal Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| Meniscus Repair | Reattach and stabilize torn tissue using sutures or anchors | Younger, active patients with tears near the outer edge (good blood supply) |
| Partial Meniscectomy | Remove damaged or loose cartilage fragments | Patients with degenerative or complex tears |
| Cartilage Restoration (MACI or Orthobiologic Augmentation) | Promote cartilage regeneration using the patient’s own cells or biologics | Patients with significant cartilage loss or chronic inflammation |
Each procedure is performed through tiny incisions, using advanced visualization tools that allow Dr. Swanson to repair the meniscus with precision.
Closing and Recovery Room
The incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips. Patients typically return home the same day, wearing a compression wrap and with detailed recovery instructions.
Post-Surgery Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies based on the type of surgery performed and the patient’s overall health. Dr. Swanson provides a personalized rehabilitation plan that promotes healing and gradual return to activity.
| Stage | Timeframe | Goals & Care Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Recovery | 1–2 weeks | Manage swelling and pain with ice, elevation, and prescribed medication. Use crutches as needed. |
| Rehabilitation Phase | 3–6 weeks | Begin guided physical therapy to restore range of motion and prevent stiffness. |
| Strength Rebuilding | 6–12 weeks | Focus on strengthening quadriceps and hamstrings to support joint stability. |
| Return to Activity | 3–6 months | Gradual resumption of normal activities and low-impact exercise once cleared by Dr. Swanson. |
Patients undergoing meniscus repair typically need a longer recovery period than those having a partial meniscectomy, as the tissue must fully heal before bearing full weight.
The Role of Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation is one of the most critical phases of recovery. Dr. Swanson’s team partners with physical therapists who focus on:
- Restoring motion: Gentle bending and extension exercises to prevent stiffness.
- Building strength: Targeted leg and core workouts to stabilize the knee.
- Improving balance: Proprioceptive training to prevent re-injury.
- Enhancing mobility: Gradual return to walking, cycling, and sports movements.
Patients who adhere to therapy protocols often experience faster, safer recovery and better long-term outcomes.
How Dr. Swanson Ensures a Smooth Surgical Experience
Dr. Swanson’s approach to meniscus surgery emphasizes both technical precision and patient comfort. His use of advanced arthroscopic equipment allows for high-definition visualization and minimally invasive intervention.
When appropriate, Dr. Swanson also utilizes surgical technologies from Enovis®, including guidance and instrumentation systems designed to support accuracy and improve the overall surgical experience. These tools help enhance visualization, streamline operative steps, and assist in creating reproducible, patient-specific results.
He may also incorporate orthobiologic injections such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) to support post-surgical healing. These biologic therapies help reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue repair. Combined with personalized aftercare and close follow-up, this comprehensive approach ensures patients recover strength, flexibility, and long-term joint health.
Experience Advanced Meniscus Surgery with Trusted Orthopedic Care
Meniscus surgery can relieve persistent knee pain, restore motion, and protect long-term joint health when performed with precision and expertise. Dr. Christopher Swanson combines minimally invasive techniques with personalized rehabilitation to help patients recover safely and return to the activities they enjoy.
To learn more or schedule your procedure, book a meniscus surgery consultation with Dr. Swanson Orthopedics in Jacksonville, St. Johns, or Fleming Island, FL, and begin your path toward lasting knee stability and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does meniscus surgery take?
Most arthroscopic meniscus procedures last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity and whether additional repairs are performed.
Is meniscus surgery painful?
Patients experience minimal pain thanks to anesthesia and small incisions. Mild soreness and swelling after the procedure are normal and can be managed with medication and rest.
When can I walk after surgery?
Patients who undergo a partial meniscectomy can often walk with crutches within a few days. Those with meniscus repair may need to limit weight-bearing for several weeks.
Do orthobiologic injections help after surgery?
Yes. PRP or BMAC injections can support healing by promoting cell regeneration and reducing inflammation during the recovery process.
When can I return to sports or exercise?
Low-impact activity is generally allowed after 6–8 weeks, while full sports participation typically resumes between 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of procedure and recovery progress.
