About this video
Last updated: 9 October 2026
The video says a meniscectomy removes the torn portion of the meniscus, typically where the blood supply is minimal and natural healing is unlikely. A meniscal repair sews the tear back together, where the blood supply is sufficient to support healing.
Key points
- The video describes the meniscus as the knee’s natural shock absorber, a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the joint.
- It lists rest, ice, physiotherapy and anti-inflammatory medicines as non-surgical treatments, and says surgery is considered when symptoms persist or the tear is significant.
- A meniscectomy removes the torn portion of the meniscus; the video says it is typically used where blood supply is minimal and natural healing is unlikely.
- A meniscal repair aims to preserve and heal the meniscus by suturing (sewing) the tear, where the blood supply is sufficient to support healing.
- The video says recovery differs between the two procedures, and that repair involves more dedicated rehabilitation than meniscectomy.
Questions this video answers
What is the difference between a meniscectomy and a meniscal repair?
The video says a meniscectomy removes the torn portion of the meniscus, typically where the blood supply is minimal and natural healing is unlikely. A meniscal repair sews the tear back together, where the blood supply is sufficient to support healing.
Is recovery different after meniscectomy and meniscal repair?
The video says recovery differs between the two procedures. It describes repair as needing more patience and a period of dedicated rehabilitation, compared with meniscectomy.
