Surgery for a discoid meniscus depends on the condition of the meniscus. In most cases, the meniscus needs to be reshaped or removed, but in rare cases, it can be repaired.

Because the discoid meniscus is usually worn out, inside-out sutures (stitches that go through the meniscus from the inside and out) are used to secure it in place. This helps the meniscus heal properly.

If a large portion of the meniscus needs to be removed (resected) or reshaped into a crescent shape (saucerized), it is important to closely monitor the knee afterward. The lateral meniscus helps absorb shock in the knee, and if too much is removed, the risk of developing arthritis increases.

Patients should watch for any pain or swelling in the knee, as these can be early signs of arthritis. It’s important to have regular follow-up appointments with your doctor, and you may need X-rays to check for bone spurs or joint space narrowing, which are signs of arthritis. If the knee alignment is not correct, a special unloader brace may be needed to protect the knee, especially in younger patients whose bones are still growing.

After surgery, physical therapy is very important to help you heal and get the best results. It’s essential to follow your rehabilitation program and avoid activities that involve heavy impact, contact, or twisting. These can slow down the healing process.

For patients who have had discoid meniscus surgery, it’s important to avoid certain activities for at least four months after surgery. These include deep squatting, sitting cross-legged, and heavy lifting. This helps give the part of the meniscus that was repaired the best chance to heal.

If the surgery involved repairing meniscal roots or tears that go across the meniscus, the recovery process may take longer.