Meniscal Tear Repair, Los Angeles, CA

A torn meniscus in the knee is one of the most common orthopaedic injuries, affecting patients of all ages and activity groups. There is an inner and outer meniscus in each knee, consisting of a “C” shaped piece of cartilage. It is attached at the outside margins to the top surface of your lower leg bone. Your menisci serve two very important functions. First, they act as “shock absorbers” that protect the underlying bone and cartilage and they help deepen the joint by way of their wedged shape, providing stability and support. Your meniscus helps protect your bones and cartilage from wear and tear which can eventually lead to arthritis, making a torn meniscus a very serious injury. For those who are suffering from a torn meniscus, Dr. Thomas Vangsness will help you heal and recover with personalized patient care.

A torn meniscus usually occurs while performing a twisting movement while the knee is bent or flexed, a common injury among athletes. Older patients can also tear their meniscus without major trauma as the meniscus cartilage weakens with age. For treatment immediately following a torn meniscus, Los Angeles orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Vangsness begins with RICE – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. During the first 48 hours following the injury, RICE helps decrease the pain and swelling of inflammation. If you experience symptoms such as locking, clicking or pain, you may have to have surgery to help fix a torn meniscus. Dr. Vangsness performs a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopic surgery, using an arthroscope (small camera that is about the size of a pencil) to fix the torn meniscus cartilage by removing or trimming just the damaged portion.

For results and experience you can trust, contact Dr. Thomas Vangsness to schedule an appointment. Please call (323) 442-5800.