Pediatric Meniscus Surgery
What is Discoid Meniscus and Torn Meniscus in a Child?
The meniscus is fibrocartilage that cushions the knee joint and protects the articular cartilage of the knee. In children, trauma from sport or other injury can cause the meniscus to tear and may require surgery due to symptoms of pain and limited function. A discoid meniscus, which occurs in a few percent of all people, is a knee condition where the meniscus is abnormally shaped like a disc, rather than the usual crescent shape. The extra tissue that makes up a discoid meniscus is more prone to tear and can be associated with knee pain, locking, and instability. Discoid menisci can tear at any stage of life, but more commonly in children. Normal meniscal tissue can also tear in kids and may require surgery if symptoms of pain limit their function.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
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Symptoms: Pain, swelling, clicking or locking of the knee
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Diagnosis: Clinical examination and MRI imaging to visualize the meniscus and associated joint issues
How We Fix It
The torn meniscus can be repaired with sutures. Pediatric meniscal tears have a higher chance of healing due to the improved vascularity in children. Also, repair to save the meniscus is desirable in children as the meniscus is important for knee health and to avoid the risk of developing arthritis. Dr. Marx makes every attempt to suture and save meniscal tissue rather than removing it.
We provide a comprehensive evaluation and utilize the latest arthroscopic techniques to correct the torn meniscus. Our goal is to restore normal knee function and prevent future complications.
What to Expect After Meniscus Surgery
Following the meniscus surgery, rehabilitation is undertaken with a physical therapist. The initial steps in therapy are to reduce swelling and regain full motion of the knee. Crutches are generally used for a few days and most patients are walking normally by one to two weeks following surgery, depending on the procedure. Strengthening is an important part of the rehabilitation process and return to sports is generally possible by a few months, depending on the procedure.