Arthroscopic meniscus repair in Wrocław
Arthroscopic meniscus repair saves a torn meniscus instead of removing it, which protects the cartilage of the knee. Through 2-3 small incisions the surgeon assesses the tear and stitches it with special implants; the operation takes 45-90 minutes under regional or general anaesthetic. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław it is performed by Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD.
Arthroscopic meniscus repair saves a torn meniscus instead of removing it, which protects the cartilage of the knee. Through 2-3 small incisions the surgeon assesses the tear and stitches it with special implants; the operation takes 45-90 minutes under regional or general anaesthetic. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław it is performed by Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD.
What does the procedure involve?
Arthroscopy with meniscus repair is a minimally invasive procedure in which the damaged meniscus is not removed but sutured, preserving its natural cushioning function. The surgeon operates through small incisions under the control of an arthroscopic camera. Preserving the meniscus protects the cartilage and delays the development of degenerative changes in the knee.
The most common indications for the procedure:
Preparation for the procedure:
Orthopedic consultation and qualification based on clinical and imaging tests (X-ray, MRI)
Tests
Anaesthesiological consultation
Stopping anticoagulant and NSAID medications for 7-10 days
No smoking or alcohol for a minimum of 5 days
On the day of the procedure: a clean knee, without skin lesions, without cosmetics or lotions
Course of the procedure
The procedure takes 45-90 minutes and is performed under regional or general anaesthesia.
The orthopedist makes 2-3 incisions (ports) around the knee, through which a camera and microinstruments are introduced
The meniscus injury is assessed and then sutured using special implants (e.g. Fast-Fix, All-Inside).
The procedure ends with rinsing the joint and applying a dressing and possibly a brace.
Recovery and post-procedure recommendations:
Walking with the limb offloaded (crutches) for 4-6 weeks
A knee brace is often recommended (range of motion set individually)
Physiotherapy from the first days - initially passive, then active
Limiting knee flexion for 4 weeks (depending on the location and type of suture)
Suture removal after 7-10 days
Orthopedic and physiotherapy check-ups - every 2-4 weeks
Return to sport no earlier than after 4-6 months
Failure of the suture and the need for re-operation
Joint infection
Haematoma or effusion into the joint
Intra-articular adhesions
Temporary sensory disturbances
Persistent pain or limited mobility (rare)
Frequently asked questions
What does arthroscopic meniscus repair involve?
Through millimetre-sized accesses the surgeon sutures the torn meniscus with special implants, preserving its tissue. It is the treatment of choice in young, active patients - the meniscus plays a key cushioning role.
When can the meniscus be sutured and when must it be removed?
Suturing is possible with fresh tears in the well-vascularised zone of the meniscus. Old, delaminated or avascular lesions require partial resection - the decision is often made intraoperatively.
How long does meniscus-repair surgery take?
Usually 45-90 minutes, under spinal anaesthesia. After the operation, the doctor decides when you are ready to go home.
Why is it worth saving the meniscus instead of removing it?
Removing the meniscus accelerates cartilage wear and the development of degenerative changes. Suturing preserves the cushioning and stability of the knee, which pays off for decades.
What does recovery after meniscus repair look like?
For about 4-6 weeks a brace protects the knee, and walking is done with crutches with limited loading. Full flexion and loading are introduced gradually according to the rehabilitation protocol.
When can you return to sport after meniscus repair?
To non-contact sports usually after 3-4 months, to pivoting sports (football, skiing) after 5-6 months - after rebuilding muscle strength and with the orthopedist’s consent.
Does meniscus repair hurt?
The procedure is painless thanks to anaesthesia, and post-operative complaints are moderate and respond well to medication. Cooling and elevation of the limb significantly reduce swelling.
Does a sutured meniscus always heal?
Healing is achieved in about 80-90% of patients who follow the protocol. Smoking, premature loading and skipped rehabilitation increase the risk of failure.
Is meniscus repair combined with ACL reconstruction?
Yes - meniscus injuries often accompany a rupture of the cruciate ligament and are repaired during a single operation. Simultaneous ACL reconstruction also improves meniscus healing.
How to prepare for the procedure?
Needed are: an orthopedic consultation with a current MRI, blood tests and anaesthesiological qualification. On the day of the operation you come fasting. Also arrange forearm crutches and transport home for when the doctor lets you leave.
What are the possible complications of meniscus repair?
Rare: failure to heal requiring re-operation, infection, thrombosis, temporary limitation of mobility. Strict adherence to the recommendations minimises the risk.
How much does arthroscopy with meniscus repair cost in Wrocław?
Arthroscopy with meniscus repair starts at PLN 13,000 in our price list.
Indications - is this procedure for you?
The most common reasons patients come for the “Arthroscopy with meniscus repair” procedure:
- Pain limiting daily activity, work or sleep.
- Limited mobility, instability or “catching” in the joint.
- A lack of sufficient improvement after conservative treatment and rehabilitation.
Contraindications
Effects - when and for how long?
Effect: full healing of the meniscus takes several months. Durability: lasting when the recommendations are followed.
Safety and possible complications
As with any operation, the following are possible - though rare: haematoma, infection, sensory disturbances in the operated area, scar hypertrophy or the need for another procedure.
We minimise the risk at every stage: a sterile procedure suite, an experienced anaesthesiology team, careful qualification and post-operative monitoring. You have the right to know every aspect of the procedure - at the consultation we will discuss them honestly and without haste.
Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD
A specialist in orthopedics and traumatology of the locomotor system with over 13 years of experience in trauma and orthopedic surgery. A doctor of medical sciences, a graduate of the Wrocław Medical Academy; he also gained experience in hospitals in the United Kingdom, combining modern treatment techniques with an individual approach to the patient.
Take the first step
Book a consultation - an honest conversation about expectations, options and the treatment plan.
Arthroscopic meniscus repair: price and consultation
Arthroscopy with meniscus repair costs from PLN 13,000 at Luna Clinic. The price depends on the number of implants and the extent of the repair, and on whether it is combined with ACL reconstruction (from PLN 13,500).
How to book
Call +48 666 850 666 (Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00) or send the consultation form. All prices: Luna Clinic price list.
Where we are
Consultation and surgery: Luna Clinic, ul. Władysława Syrokomli 46, 51-141 Wrocław, Poland - in the Karłowice area of the Psie Pole district. There is parking for patients by the clinic. Directions and map