Meniscus Tear Surgery and Repair in Singapore

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If you struggle with knee pain, swelling, or stiffness that make everyday movements such as walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for long periods difficult, you may have a meniscus tear in your knee. Meniscus tears are common knee injuries with cases rising worldwide due to increased sports participation.

Whether your injury is from sports, wear-and-tear, or sudden twisting of the knee, there are both surgical and non-surgical solutions available. You can regain mobility and improve your quality of life with meniscus tear treatments tailored for you by a knee specialist in Singapore.

What is a Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is a piece of soft tissue in your knee that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. It absorbs shock, keeps your knee stable, and allows smooth movement. A meniscus tear happens when this soft tissue is damaged from excessive use or vigorous activities. Tears can range from mild to severe, with symptoms varying depending on the location and extent of the damage.

What are the Causes of a Meniscus Tear

Common causes of a meniscus tear include:

Sudden twisting movements during sports or physical activity
Heavy lifting or squatting motions
Age-related wear and tear of knee cartilage
Previous knee injuries

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

You may have a meniscus tear if you notice these signs:

Knee pain, especially when twisting or rotating the knee
Swelling and stiffness
Difficulty bending or straightening the leg fully
A “popping” sensation during the injury
Feeling that the knee is locking

These symptoms can progress and get in the way of your daily life. At Alps Orthopaedic Centre, we focus on knee preservation by repairing cartilage and meniscus damage using minimally invasive techniques. Book an appointment now for a personalised evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

How is a Meniscus Tear Diagnosed

Diagnosing a meniscus tear starts with a visit to an orthopaedic specialist in Singapore. Our doctor will carefully assess your symptoms, medical history, and perform tests to confirm the injury, before recommending the next steps.

Physical Examination

The doctor will check for swelling, tenderness, and your knee’s range of motion.
Special tests, such as the McMurray test, may be used. These involve gently moving or rotating your knee to see if pain or a “clicking” sound occurs, which often indicates a meniscus tear.

Imaging Tests

X-ray: While meniscus tears don’t show up directly on an X-ray, this test helps your doctor rule out other causes of knee pain, such as fractures or arthritis.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan: MRI creates detailed images of the soft tissues inside your knee, allowing the doctor to see the exact location, size, and severity of the tear.

Arthroscopy (if needed)

In some cases, if the diagnosis is unclear, your surgeon may perform a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopy. A tiny camera is inserted into the knee joint, giving a direct view of the meniscus and allowing treatment at the same time if required.

Early diagnosis of a meniscus tear helps your doctor decide the best treatment plan for you, whether that’s rest, physiotherapy, or surgery. Early care also prevents the tear from worsening and reduces the risk of long-term joint problems like arthritis.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Meniscus Tear in Singapore

If your tear is not severe, your doctor may recommend non-surgical treatments. These may include:

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE method)
Pain relief medications
Physiotherapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles
Activity modification to reduce stress on the knee

Surgical Treatments for Meniscus Tear in Singapore

When non-surgical options are not enough to relieve symptoms, your doctor may recommend meniscus tear surgery to repair and restore your knee function while preventing further damage. The two most common procedures are:

Meniscus Repair – stitching the torn cartilage back together to allow natural healing.
Partial Meniscectomy – trimming away the damaged, unrepairable portion of the meniscus, while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Both approaches aim to relieve pain, improve mobility, and protect the long-term health of your knee joint.

Meniscus Repair

Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure where the torn edges of the cartilage are carefully stitched back together to promote natural healing. Unlike trimming the tissue away, meniscus repair aims to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible, helping to maintain the knee’s natural cushioning and long-term joint health. This option is usually recommended for:

Younger patients whose tissue has stronger healing potential.

Tears that occur in the “red zone” of the meniscus (the outer edge with a good blood supply), where stitches are more likely to heal successfully.

Benefits of Meniscus Repair

Preserves knee function and stability.
Reduces the risk of early arthritis compared to meniscus removal.
Provides a more durable solution, especially for active individuals.

A meniscus repair requires time for the tissue to heal, so recovery may be longer than meniscectomy. However, the long-term outcomes are generally more favourable.

Partial Meniscectomy

When a meniscus tear cannot be repaired, such as those in the “white zone” (inner region with poor blood supply) or when the tissue is too damaged, a partial meniscectomy may be performed. In this surgery, the surgeon trims away the damaged portion of the cartilage while preserving as much healthy meniscus as possible.

A partial meniscectomy is usually recommended for:

Complex or degenerative tears that won’t heal with stitches.
Tears causing significant pain, swelling, or mechanical issues like knee locking.
Older patients or those with limited healing potential.

Benefits of Partial Meniscectomy

Relieves pain and restores mobility more quickly than repair.
Shorter recovery time, often allowing a faster return to daily activities.

However, because part of the meniscus is permanently removed, there is a slightly higher risk of developing arthritis in the long term compared to meniscus repair. Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss these risks with you to help you decide on the best treatment option.

Meniscus Tear Surgery Procedure

As mentioned earlier, your surgeon may choose one of two approaches, the meniscus repair or partial meniscectomy, depending on the type and location of your tear. Here’s a general outline of the steps typically taken during surgery:

Anaesthesia: You will be given either general anaesthesia (asleep during surgery) or regional anaesthesia (numbing the lower body) to ensure you feel no pain.
Small incisions: The surgeon will make two or three tiny cuts around the knee.
Camera insertion (Arthroscope): A thin tube with a small camera is inserted into the knee. This provides a clear and magnified view of the joint on a monitor.

Surgical repair or removal: Using specialised instruments, the surgeon will either:
- Repair the torn meniscus by stitching it back together, or
- Trim and remove the damaged portion in a partial meniscectomy.
Flushing and inspection: The joint is gently flushed with sterile fluid to remove debris and check for any additional damage.
Closing the incisions: The tiny incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Meniscus Tear Pre-Surgery Procedure

Preparing for meniscus tear surgery is an important step in ensuring the best possible outcome, and your doctor will perform various checks beforehand. Taking these steps not only ensures your safety during the procedure but also helps you achieve a smoother and faster recovery afterwards.

Medical evaluation: Your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and overall health to confirm that surgery is the right option.
Imaging Tests: MRI or X-rays may be used to assess the exact size, location, and severity of the tear.
Pre-Surgical Physiotherapy: You may be advised to start physiotherapy exercises before surgery to strengthen the muscles around the knee.
Pre-Operative Instructions: You will be given guidance on medications to avoid, fasting requirements, and lifestyle adjustments (such as stopping smoking) to reduce risks during surgery.

Meniscus Tear Surgery Procedure

Anaesthesia: You will be given either general anaesthesia (asleep during surgery) or regional anaesthesia (numbing the lower body) to ensure you feel no pain.
Small incisions: The surgeon will make two or three tiny cuts around the knee.
Camera insertion (Arthroscope): A thin tube with a small camera is inserted into the knee. This provides a clear and magnified view of the joint on a monitor.

Surgical repair or removal: Using specialised instruments, the surgeon will either:
- Repair the torn meniscus by stitching it back together, or
- Trim and remove the damaged portion in a partial meniscectomy.
Flushing and inspection: The joint is gently flushed with sterile fluid to remove debris and check for any additional damage.
Closing the incisions: The tiny incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Meniscus Tear Post-Surgery Recovery

Recovering from meniscus tear surgery is just as important as the procedure itself. After surgery, your knee needs time, care, and rehabilitation to heal properly. With the right guidance, most patients are able to regain strength, mobility, and return to their normal routines.

After surgery

- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation to control pain and swelling
- Crutches may be needed for support, especially after a repair

First few weeks
- Regular follow-up visits to check healing progress
- Physiotherapy to improve range of motion and prevent stiffness
- Light strengthening exercises for surrounding muscles
Intermediate recovery (four to eight weeks)
- Gradual increase in walking and weight-bearing activities
- Transition from crutches to normal walking
- Continued physiotherapy to build strength and stability
Long-term recovery (three to six months)
- Return to sports or strenuous activities once cleared by your surgeon
- Ongoing exercises to protect knee health and prevent re-injury

Risks of Meniscus Tear Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, meniscus tear surgery carries some risks. While complications are uncommon, it’s important for patients to be aware of the possible side effects before deciding on treatment. Most risks can be managed with proper care, early detection, and close follow-up with your surgeon.

Infection: Rare but possible at the incision site or inside the joint.
Blood clots: Uncommon, but can develop in the leg after surgery.
Knee stiffness: Reduced flexibility during recovery if rehabilitation is delayed.
Persistent pain or swelling: Some discomfort may continue for a period of time.
Re-tear of the meniscus: Especially if the tissue does not heal properly after a repair.
Nerve or blood vessel injury: Very rare, but may occur during surgery.

Meniscus Tear Surgery Cost in Singapore

The cost of meniscus tear surgery in Singapore can vary depending on the type of procedure and hospital. A partial meniscectomy may cost around $13,000–$16,000, while a meniscus repair can range from $20,000–$30,000.

MediSave and insurance can often be used to offset expenses, so it’s best to check with your insurer and doctor before surgery.

At Alps Orthopaedic Centre, our team will guide you on financial options and cost estimates before proceeding with surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions on Meniscus Tear Treatment

How long does it take to recover from meniscus tear surgery?

Recovery may take between 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of surgery and your rehabilitation progress.

Can a meniscus tear heal without surgery?

Some small tears may heal with rest, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. Larger or persistent tears usually require surgery.

How do I prevent a meniscus tear?

Strengthening the muscles around the knees, avoiding sudden twisting motions, and using proper techniques and supportive footwear during sports can help reduce the risk of a meniscus tear.

When should I see a doctor for knee pain?

If you experience swelling, locking, or ongoing discomfort that limits your mobility, it is best to consult a knee specialist in Singapore.

If you are experiencing knee pain or suspect a meniscus tear, early treatment can make a significant difference in your recovery and long-term mobility. Contact us today to book a consultation with our orthopaedic specialists at Alps Orthopaedic Centre in Singapore.

Visit Alps Orthopaedic Centre

At Alps, we care about you and will do our utmost to help you gradually return to your usual activities.

Book an appointment with our experienced Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen, for a detailed assessment and tailored treatment plan.

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Dr Jerry Chen

MBBS (S’pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)

Fellowship-trained Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon & Medical Director

Before starting Alps Orthopaedic Centre, Dr Jerry Chen was a Consultant at Singapore General Hospital (SGH), where he accumulated over 13 years of experience in Orthopaedic Surgery.
Dr Chen spearheaded the workgroup for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for hip and knee replacement surgeries at SGH, where he successfully employed ERAS, benefiting more than 2,000 patients thus far.
Having performed over 500 surgeries in a year, he has been instrumental in helping numerous patients recover from injuries and diseases and return to their active lifestyles.
His clinical interests include Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for Hip and Knee, Sports Injuries, Minimally Invasive Surgery and Robotic Surgery.

Why Alps Orthopaedic Centre?

At Alps Orthopaedic Centre, we specialise in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS). Performed as a Day Surgery, the ERAS Direct Anterior Approach in Total Hip Replacement (THR) technique as well as ERAS Total Knee Replacement (TKR), reduces the average hospitalisation stay, utilising techniques which enable the patient to suffer from less pain and recover faster. We are an Orthopaedic clinic in Singapore, which specialises in ERAS and do our utmost to enable patients to return to everyday activities as early as possible.

Our Orthopaedic clinic provides specialised diagnosis and effective treatment of musculoskeletal problems, especially Day Surgery / Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) For Hip and Knee Surgery, Sports Injuries and Trauma Fractures. If you are considering hip or knee surgery or minimally invasive treatments, book an appointment with our experienced Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen, for a thorough assessment and treatment plan.

Our aim is to boost patient well-being, optimising every aspect of the surgical journey. By minimising the recovery period, patients are able to go back to activities that they love. The Alps team offers comprehensive financial counselling sessions to ensure our patients understand their options and make informed decisions regarding their treatment plans.

Has this article been insightful? Share it!

Dr Jerry Chen

MBBS (S’pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)

Fellowship-trained Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon & Medical Director

Before starting Alps Orthopaedic Centre, Dr Jerry Chen was a Consultant at Singapore General Hospital (SGH), where he accumulated over 13 years of experience in Orthopaedic Surgery.
Dr Chen spearheaded the workgroup for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for hip and knee replacement surgeries at SGH, where he successfully employed ERAS, benefiting more than 2,000 patients thus far.
Having performed over 500 surgeries in a year, he has been instrumental in helping numerous patients recover from injuries and diseases and return to their active lifestyles.
His clinical interests include Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for Hip and Knee, Sports Injuries, Minimally Invasive Surgery and Robotic Surgery.

Why Alps Orthopaedic Centre?

Has this article been insightful? Share it!

Dr Jerry Chen

MBBS (S’pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)

Fellowship-trained Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon & Medical Director

Before starting Alps Orthopaedic Centre, Dr Jerry Chen was a Consultant at Singapore General Hospital (SGH), where he accumulated over 15 years of experience in Orthopaedic Surgery.
Having performed over 500 surgeries in a year, he has been instrumental in helping numerous patients recover from injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
As a driven and valued member, Dr Chen spearheaded the workgroup for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for hip and knee replacement surgeries at SGH.
Over the course of his career at SGH, Dr Chen has successfully employed ERAS and reduced the average hospitalisation stay for hip and knee replacement surgeries.
Going through these ERAS day surgeries has benefited more than 2,000 patients thus far, enabling them to suffer from less pain and recover faster.
The Alps team is committed to providing specialised orthopaedic care tailored to your unique condition. We offer comprehensive financial counselling sessions to ensure our patients understand their options and make informed decisions regarding their treatment plans.

Why Alps Orthopaedic Centre?

Our Orthopaedic clinic provides specialised diagnosis and effective treatment of musculoskeletal problems, especially Day Surgery / Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) For Hip and Knee Surgery, Sports Injuries and Trauma Fractures. If you are considering hip or knee surgery or minimally invasive treatments, book an appointment with our experienced Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen, for a thorough assessment and treatment plan.