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Meniscectomy vs Meniscus Repair: Exploring the Differences Between the Two
If you have ever experienced a meniscus tear, you know how debilitating it can be. Meniscus tears are a common injury that can occur in anyone, young or old. In this article, we will explore the differences between two common surgical treatments for meniscus tears: meniscectomy vs meniscus repair.
Understanding Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a crucial component of the knee joint, serving as a cushion between the thigh bone and the shin bone. It is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that helps to distribute weight evenly across the joint, reducing friction and preventing damage to the bones.
Meniscus tears are a common condition that can occur due to a sudden injury or as a result of wear and tear over time. If left untreated, a meniscus tear can lead to further damage to the knee joint and cause long-term pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of a meniscus tear may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend a variety of treatments, including physical therapy, rest, and in some cases, surgery.
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Meniscectomy Explained
A meniscectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the damaged meniscus. The meniscus is a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions the knee and helps to distribute weight evenly across the joint. Meniscal tears are a common injury in athletes and can also occur in people as they age. While some meniscal tears can be treated with non-surgical options such as rest and physical therapy, others require a more invasive approach.
In cases where the tear is too large or severe to be repaired, a meniscectomy may be recommended. During the procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in the knee and use specialized instruments to remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. This can help to alleviate pain and improve function in the knee joint.
A Brief Overview on Meniscus Repair
Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure that aims to repair the torn meniscus. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber and helps to distribute weight evenly across the joint. When the meniscus is torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee, and may even lead to arthritis if left untreated.
During a meniscus repair procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions in the knee and use arthroscopic instruments to access the torn meniscus. If the tear is small and located in the outer edge of the meniscus, and has a good blood supply, the surgeon may be able to repair it using sutures or other techniques. This can help to preserve the meniscus and prevent further damage to the knee joint.
Meniscectomy VS Meniscus Repair - Which One is Right for You?
Meniscectomy vs meniscus repair are two surgical procedures used to address meniscus injuries. While both procedures have their own advantages and disadvantages, it is important to understand the differences between meniscectomy vs meniscus repair.
Meniscectomy is a quick and relatively simple procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the meniscus. This procedure can provide immediate relief of symptoms such as pain and swelling, and it is often recommended for patients with severe meniscus injuries. However, it is important to note that removing a portion of the meniscus can lead to long-term problems such as arthritis. This is because the meniscus is an important shock absorber in the knee joint, and removing a part of it can increase the load on the remaining tissue.
On the other hand, meniscus repair is a more complex procedure that involves the repair of the damaged meniscus tissue. This procedure has the potential to preserve the meniscus and prevent future problems such as arthritis. However, it also has a longer recovery time and may not be suitable for all patients. Meniscus repair is often recommended for patients with less severe meniscus injuries or for those who are younger and more active.
Menisectomy Has Failed to Show Therapeutic Benefits in the Long Run
If your physician has recommended a menisectoomy, – you might want to reconsider. A recent meta analysis of menisectomy patients showed little or no therapueitc benefit over non-surgical treatment or placebo treatments years after the procedure took place. Furthermore, a study published in Pubmed found that patients who underwent meniscectomy had a higher risk of developing arthritis compared to those who underwent meniscal repair or had no surgery at all.
While it can be an effective treatment for certain types of knee injuries, it also carries the risk of arthritis later in life. This is because removing a portion of the meniscus can cause increased stress on the knee joint, leading to wear and tear and eventually arthritis. Therefore, it’s important to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of meniscectomy before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Meniscus Repair Can Help, But Not Everyone’s Meniscus Would Allow It
On the other hand, meniscus repair is a similar procedure that aims to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible. Studies have shown that people who undergo meniscus repair are less likely to develop arthritis later in life compared to those who undergo meniscectomy. This is because meniscus repair can help to maintain the natural cushioning and stability of the knee joint, reducing the risk of wear and tear and arthritis.
Unfortunately, some patients meniscus will be beyond repair. This is typically seen in patients with chronic degeneration of the meniscus – seen more commonly with age. Hence, for these patients, it’s important to consider a regenerative option that encourages the meniscus to heal, one that is minimally-invasive as well.
Stem Cell Therapy Provides a Viable Alternative to Invasive Meniscus Surgery
Fortunately, there are alternatives to surgery for treating meniscus tears. One such alternative is stem cell therapy. Stem cells are cells that have the ability to develop into different types of cells in the body. Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells into the damaged area of the meniscus, with the goal of promoting healing and regeneration.
Studies have shown promising results for stem cell therapy in treating meniscus tears. In one study, patients who underwent stem cell therapy had significant improvements in pain, function, and quality of life. Another study found that stem cell therapy was as effective as meniscus repair in treating meniscus tears.
Renovo Health and Beauty Provides Stem Cell Therapy for Knee Patients Looking to Avoid Surgery
Patients who aren’t a candidate for meniscus repair or don’t want to undergo an invasive procedure should know that there’s a better option out there. Renovo Health and Beauty provides a comprehensive range of stem cell therapy procedures in Tijuana, Mexico, just across the border from San Diego, California. Patients who choose Renovo can benefit from higher dosages of stem cells that are not currently allowed in the United States, resulting in faster healing time and better outcomes.
Renovo’s team of highly skilled medical professionals, including licensed doctors and nurses, is dedicated to providing the highest quality medical care to each patient. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and equipment, ensuring that you receive the best possible care.
In addition, Tijuana is a safe and luxurious tourist destination that offers a wide range of activities for patients and their families to enjoy. Renovo also offers assistance with travel accommodations for patients who schedule in advance, making it easy and stress-free to plan your trip.
Before going under the knife, consider stem cell therapy to assist your body to heal naturally, without medications or invasive surgeries. Our medical team at Renovo Health and Beauty is standing by to assist you – contact us to learn more about how you can start your journey to healing.
