The cause of your persistent knee pain could be a MENISCUS TEAR.

Op. Dr. Serhan Yağdı provided detailed information about the diagnosis, treatment methods, surgery, and post-operative processes of the meniscus.

Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Op. Dr. Serhan Yağdı explained that the menisci are cartilage-like structures located inside the knee joint, with two menisci in each knee: one medial and one lateral. He emphasized that the menisci are crucial for carrying and distributing loads across the knee joint. “They also improve joint surface congruency and contribute to the circulation of joint fluid. Without menisci, the forces on the knee are transmitted directly to the articular cartilage, causing early wear. Therefore, preserving the menisci is extremely important,” he said.

Regarding pain caused by a torn meniscus, Yağdı noted that it is often felt more on the inner or outer side of the knee. “Swelling usually occurs in the joint. Pain typically arises during sudden twisting movements, squatting, or climbing stairs, particularly in the areas of the torn meniscus. Severe injuries may also involve tears in the cruciate or collateral ligaments. Fragments of the meniscus can cause locking, catching, or popping sounds in the knee. In young people, these injuries often occur during sports activities involving twisting motions on the knee, such as football, basketball, or skiing. As people age, menisci lose their health and elasticity, and tears can even occur during simple squatting in daily life,” he explained.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT METHODS

Yağdı stated that meniscus tears can largely be diagnosed through patient history and a detailed physical examination. “The most accurate and reliable method to confirm a meniscus tear is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which has an accuracy rate of over 95%. X-rays may be needed to identify bone-related issues. However, MRI alone is not the sole determinant in treatment decisions. In patients who have previously undergone surgery for meniscus injuries, error rates are higher, and further diagnostic methods may be required. In such cases, arthroscopy is used for definitive diagnosis. Treatment of meniscus tears is usually surgical. Small partial-thickness tears may heal spontaneously. Factors such as the patient’s age, activity level, and the location and type of tear guide treatment decisions. If the patient has significant symptoms, meniscus repair is attempted, and if the tear cannot be repaired, the damaged portion is removed while preserving the remaining healthy meniscus.”

POST-OPERATIVE PROCESS

“After surgery, it may be necessary to avoid putting weight on the leg for 4-6 weeks, and crutches may be required,” Yağdı said. “Returning to sports may take 1-4 months. Despite treatment, symptoms may persist, and new meniscus tears can occur. In older patients, age-related joint problems may complicate meniscus repair. In such cases, supportive treatments like PRP injections can be applied. Additionally, other intra-articular surgical procedures performed via arthroscopy can be combined with meniscus surgery.”