Capital City Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Meniscal Tear Treatment in Atlanta, GA

Treating Meniscal Tears

The knee is a complex structure composed of multiple bones (femur, tibia, patella), cartilage components, and connective tissues (tendons, ligaments, muscles). The two main pieces of cartilage, the menisci, are crescent-shaped and located at the center of the joint structure. Acting as shock absorbers, each meniscus plays a role in both the equal distribution of body weight and reduction of movement-associated friction. Damage to either may result in pain and discomfort, as well as the inability to complete basic physical movements.

While a single injury or infection can result in damage, ongoing wear-and-tear may also result in the need for orthopaedic intervention. Amongst the most common meniscal injuries are tears, which are categorized according to specific location and appearance. Popular names for frequently observed tears include: bucket, parrot-beak, flap, longitudinal, and complex/mixed.

Dr. Fowler will complete a comprehensive knee examination in order to determine the location and severity of the unique tear, and recommend an aligning approach for successful treatment.

The Diagnostic Process

For many patients, it takes 2-3 days for the signs of a meniscal tear to fully emerge. During that time, walking and participation in one's usual activities can often be completed with only slight discomfort. Once the damage becomes more noticeable, common complaints include:

• Pain and discomfort
• Inflammation
• 'Locking' of the knee
• 'Giving way' of the knee
• Inability to fully extend/bend the joint

In select cases, a portion of the meniscus will break off complety, entering the joint and impedeing knee movement.

In assessing a meniscal tear, Dr. Fowler will make note of any known injury event, as well as a history of the specific symptoms present. The knee will be examined for tenderness, visible swelling, limited range of motion, and unusual sounds. In some cases, an x-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test will be employed to identify other contributing factors.

Non-Invasive Treatment

Tears to the exterior of the menisci may be able to heal without medical intervention, as a result of the rich blood supply present. In such an event, Dr. Fowler will likely recommend a combination of anti-inflammatory and pain medications for immediate symptom relief. Likewise, the RICE approach of Rest-Ice-Compression-Elevation may be suggested to enable a successful healing environment.

If these efforts do not result in the desired outcome, or if the injury is located to the interior of the meniscus, surgical intervention may be prescribed.

Arthroscopic Diagnosis and Care

Through the use of arthroscopic techniques, Dr. Fowler will examine the damaged menisci through a fiber-optic camera that has been inserted into the joint by way of one or two small incisions. The video feed will be broadcast on a monitor in the operating room, allowing the surgical team to view and diagnose the injury in real-time.

If immediately correctable damage is present, small tools (such as razors or scissors) will be inserted for completion of the repair. The typical arthroscopic surgery last around one hour in length, and is followed by a recovery period of 1-2 hours.

Prior to hospital release, Dr. Fowler will most likely recommend a regimen of pain and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as at-home exercises and physical therapy. For full rehabilitation and the avoidance of re-inury, it will be important to adhere to the suggested post-op regimen, complete regular orthopaedic checkups, and report any unexpected symptoms or pain immediately.

Meniscal Tear Treatment in Atlanta, GA

Dr. Fowler and the team at Capital City Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine provide expert care in the treatment of knee injuries. To schedule an appointment, contact their Atlanta GA office at (404) 303-8665.