Question 1

Does every meniscus tear require surgery?

Accepted Answer

No. Many meniscus tears can be treated without surgery, particularly when symptoms are mild and there is no significant catching or locking. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist or interfere with activity.

Question 2

Can a torn meniscus heal on its own?

Accepted Answer

Most meniscus tears have a limited ability to heal because much of the meniscus has a poor blood supply. Small tears near the outer edge have a better chance of healing than tears farther toward the center.

Question 3

Is it better to repair the meniscus or remove the torn portion?

Accepted Answer

Whenever possible, preserving and repairing the meniscus is preferable. However, most tears are not repairable, and in those cases the unstable torn portion is removed while preserving as much healthy meniscus as possible.

Question 4

What happens if I leave a torn meniscus untreated?

Accepted Answer

Some tears remain relatively asymptomatic and require no treatment. Others can continue to cause pain, swelling, catching, or locking and may become more symptomatic over time.

Question 5

What is the difference between a traumatic and degenerative meniscus tear?

Accepted Answer

Traumatic tears typically occur after a twisting injury and are more common in younger patients. Degenerative tears develop gradually as the meniscus changes with age and are often associated with arthritis in the knee.

Meniscus Tear