Meniscus Repair

The meniscus is a crescent-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber and stabiliser within your knee joint. A meniscus tear can cause significant pain, swelling and instability in the knee. If you've sustained a meniscus tear, meniscus repair surgery may be the answer to regaining a healthy and functional knee.

Symptoms may include pain, clicking, locking, and restricted movement. Dr. Sime specialises in meniscus repair, using the latest techniques to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible. 

What is Meniscus Repair Surgery?

Meniscus repair surgery is a specialised procedure used to treat meniscal tears. The goal is to preserve the meniscus whenever possible, as this cartilage plays a vital role in knee stability and long-term joint health. Depending on the type of tear, Dr. Sime may repair or remove the damaged portion through knee arthroscopy surgery, a minimally invasive technique.

As a trusted knee specialist in Melbourne, Dr. Sime has extensive experience in meniscus preservation. Using advanced techniques, he can help patients recover from meniscal injuries while protecting the knee joint from further damage.

Who Needs Meniscus Repair Surgery?

Not all meniscal tears require surgery. Symptoms from small tears may resolve independently with rest, physiotherapy, and other conservative treatments. However, meniscus repair surgery is often necessary for more severe injuries, including:

  • Radial tears: Extending from the inner edge to the outer rim, these often require surgical intervention.

  • Bucket-handle tears: A displaced tear that can cause the knee to lock, typically requiring prompt surgical repair.

  • Root tears: These affect the meniscus' attachment to the bone and can lead to significant joint instability and rapid arthritis if not repaired.

Dr. Sime's expertise as an orthopaedic surgeon in Melbourne means you receive the highest quality care tailored to your specific injury.

The Meniscus Repair Surgery Process

  1. Consultation and Assessment

Before surgery, Dr. Sime conducts a thorough examination to assess the severity of your injury. Imaging tests like MRIs may be used to get a detailed view of the tear, helping to determine the most appropriate course of action.

  1. Surgical Repair

During surgery, Dr. Sime uses knee arthroscopy surgery to repair the tear. If the meniscus is repairable, he will suture the torn edges back together. In cases where the tear is too large or degenerative, partial removal of the damaged tissue may be necessary to restore proper knee function.

  1. Rehabilitation

After surgery, a structured rehabilitation plan will be developed to help you regain strength and mobility. Physiotherapy plays a critical role in your recovery, ensuring the repaired meniscus heals properly and your knee regains its full function.

  1. Recovery After Meniscus Repair Surgery

Recovery from meniscus repair surgery depends on the severity of the tear and the procedure used. Most patients can walk with crutches shortly after surgery, with full weight-bearing taking a few weeks. A personalised physiotherapy program will help restore knee strength and mobility, and patients can typically return to light activities within a few weeks, with a full return to sports or strenuous activities in 3-6 months. 


Dr. Sime is a highly regarded knee surgeon Melbourne, with extensive experience in the treatment of all meniscal tears, he works closely with each patient to provide individualised treatment and monitor their progress to ensure a smooth recovery. 

Additionally, as one of Melbourne’s leading ACL reconstruction surgeons, Dr. Sime can address complex knee injuries where both the meniscus and ACL are damaged.

Why Choose Dr. David Sime for Meniscus Repair in Melbourne?

When choosing a meniscus surgeon, experience, skill, and a patient-focused approach are essential. Dr. David Sime’s reputation as one of the top orthopaedic knee surgeons in Melbourne means you’re in expert hands. His personalised treatment plans, advanced techniques, and dedication to long-term knee health set him apart as a trusted expert in the field.

Dr. Sime takes the time to understand your individual needs and concerns, providing clear communication and building trust throughout your meniscus repair journey.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you're experiencing knee pain due to a meniscal tear, meniscus repair surgery can restore your knee function and prevent further joint damage. Dr. David Sime, a leading meniscal injuries surgeon in Melbourne, will provide expert care and help you return to your active lifestyle.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free, active future with meniscus repair surgery.

Meniscus Repair - Frequently Asked Questions

  • Meniscus repair surgery fixes tears in the knee’s meniscus cartilage. It’s needed when a tear causes pain or instability, and preserving the meniscus can prevent long-term damage. Consulting with a specialist knee surgeon such as Dr Sime is essential for successful  treatment.

  • If knee pain, swelling, or limited mobility persists after a meniscal injury, you may need meniscus repair surgery. Dr. Sime, a sub-specialist knee surgeon in Melbourne, can assess your condition to determine the best course of treatment.

  • Recovery after meniscus repair surgery involves physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility. Dr. Sime is a specialist knee surgeon, and provides a tailored recovery plan for the best patient outcomes.