Meniscal repair is a significant orthopedic procedure that plays a crucial role in maintaining joint health and preventing further damage in individuals with meniscal tears. UW Medicine states that when performed by an experienced surgeon, meniscus repair is highly successful, with good results in approximately 90% of patients.
Platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking treatments for meniscal tears with the international hospitals and facilitators for cost-effective treatments.
Medical tourism in countries like India, Dubai, and Turkey has made meniscal repair accessible to a global patient population, offering high-quality healthcare at competitive prices.
Significance of Meniscal Repair
The meniscus is a wedge-shaped cartilage located in the knee joint, serving as a shock absorber and a stabilizing component. When a meniscal tear occurs due to injury or wear and tear, it can lead to pain, limited mobility, and an increased risk of osteoarthritis. Meniscal repair is vital for several reasons:
- Joint Preservation: Meniscal repair aims to preserve the meniscus rather than removing it, which can lead to accelerated joint degeneration. Preserving the meniscus is essential for maintaining long-term joint health.
- Pain Relief: Meniscal tears often cause persistent pain and discomfort. Meniscal repair can alleviate these symptoms, allowing patients to return to their regular activities without pain.
- Improved Mobility: Restoring the meniscus through repair helps improve joint stability and mobility, making it easier for individuals to participate in sports, exercise, and daily activities.
Meniscal Repair Procedure
Meniscal repair is a surgical procedure that involves the following steps:
- Preoperative Evaluation: The orthopedic surgeon evaluates the patient’s knee using diagnostic imaging, such as MRI, to determine the extent and location of the meniscal tear.
- Arthroscopy: Under anesthesia, a minimally invasive technique known as arthroscopy is often used, involving small incisions and the insertion of a tiny camera to visualize the inside of the joint.
- Repair or Removal: The surgeon decides whether the meniscus can be repaired or if a partial meniscectomy (removal of the damaged portion) is necessary. Repair is preferred when feasible to preserve joint health.
- Suturing: In meniscal repair, the surgeon uses sutures or special devices to stitch the torn edges of the meniscus together, promoting healing.
The incisions are closed with sutures, and the patient is monitored in the recovery room. Physical therapy is an integral part of the recovery process to regain strength and mobility in the knee. HSS states that meniscus repair recovery time is typically six to nine months depending on the activities of the patient.
Medical Tourism for Meniscal Repair
The growth of medical tourism has made meniscal repair accessible to a global patient population, thanks to the healthcare facilities and expertise offered by countries like India, Dubai, and Turkey.
India has emerged as a hub for medical tourists, offering world-class healthcare infrastructure, experienced orthopedic surgeons, and cost-effective treatment options.
Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, has developed into a leading medical tourism destination, with modern hospitals, internationally trained medical professionals, and a diverse range of services.
Turkey has gained recognition as an affordable and high-quality healthcare destination. Medical tourism companies like Medditour provide opportunities for patients seeking treatment for meniscal repair to combine their treatment with vacation.
In conclusion, meniscal repair is a significant orthopedic procedure that plays a vital role in preserving joint health and reducing the risk of long-term joint degeneration. Access to this procedure has been greatly facilitated by the growth of medical tourism in countries like India, Dubai, and Turkey, where patients can receive world-class healthcare at competitive prices.