Meniscal Root Repair

Restoring meniscal function to protect the knee and reduce the risk of arthritis.

Meniscal Root Repair – Key Points

• The meniscal root anchors the meniscus to the bone and is essential for normal knee function
• A root tear causes the meniscus to stop working effectively
• High risk of early osteoarthritis if left untreated
• Repair aims to restore normal load transmission through the knee
• Surgery is keyhole (arthroscopic) and usually takes 60–90 minutes
• Recovery requires protection of the repair, typically with restricted weight-bearing for 6 weeks

What is a meniscal root tear?

The meniscal roots are the points where the meniscus attaches to the bone (tibia). These attachments are critical for allowing the meniscus to function properly.

When a root tear occurs—most commonly at the posterior root—the meniscus can no longer transmit load effectively. Biomechanically, this is similar to having the meniscus removed entirely.

Why is root repair important?

Meniscal root tears are a serious injury that should not be overlooked.

If left untreated:

• The meniscus loses its ability to distribute load
• Contact pressures in the knee increase significantly
• Rapid cartilage overload and risk of progression to arthritis
• Symptoms such as pain and swelling often persist or worsen

Repairing the root aims to restore the normal function of the meniscus and protect the joint.

Who is suitable for root repair?

Root repair is typically recommended for:

• Acute or symptomatic root tears
• Patients with minimal or early arthritis
• Active individuals wishing to preserve knee function

In some cases, particularly where there is advanced arthritis, repair may not be appropriate.

What does the operation involve?

Meniscal root repair is performed using arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery.

• The torn root is identified within the knee
• Sutures are placed through the meniscus
• A small tunnel is created in the shin bone (tibia)
• The sutures are passed through the tunnel and secured, restoring the attachment

The procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes.

Risks of meniscal root repair

As with any surgery, there are potential risks:

• Infection
• Blood clots (DVT)
• Failure of the repair (lack of healing)
• Knee stiffness
• Persistent symptoms
• Rare nerve or blood vessel injury

These risks will be discussed in detail based on your individual case.

Recovery and rehabilitation

Recovery is focused on protecting the repair while it heals.

Early phase

• Crutches are required
• Weight-bearing is usually restricted for 6 weeks
• A brace may be used to control movement

Rehabilitation timeline

• 0–6 weeks: Protect the repair, limited weight-bearing
• 6–12 weeks: Gradual return to weight-bearing and movement
• 3–6 months: Progressive strengthening and functional recovery
• 6 months+: Return to higher-level activity

High-impact activities are avoided until healing is complete.

Long-term outcomes

When successfully repaired, meniscal root tears can:

• Improve pain and function
• Restore more normal knee biomechanics
• Reduce the risk of rapid joint degeneration

Without repair, there is a significantly increased risk of early osteoarthritis, due to loss of normal meniscal function.

Why choose Mr Smith?

Mr Smith is a leading UK knee surgeon with a specialist interest in meniscal surgery, including complex and root repairs. His practice focuses on preserving the meniscus and restoring normal knee biomechanics, supported by a leading research programme in knee surgery.

You will receive a personalised treatment plan aimed at protecting your knee and optimising long-term outcomes.