Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeon
KNEE | LAS VEGAS
Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas, Nevada
The menisci are two C-shaped wedges of fibrocartilage that sit between the femoral condyles and tibial plateau in the medial and lateral compartments of the knee. They play essential roles in load distribution, shock absorption, joint lubrication, and proprioception.
The menisci transmit approximately fifty to seventy percent of the compressive load through the knee. Loss of meniscal tissue significantly increases contact stress on the articular cartilage, accelerating the development of osteoarthritis. Dr. Andrew Lee at Nevada Spine Clinic in Las Vegas prioritizes meniscal preservation over removal whenever the tear pattern allows.
Small stable meniscal tears in the vascular zone may heal with conservative management including rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Dr. Andrew Lee evaluates tear pattern, size, location, and symptoms before recommending surgery.
Large bucket handle tears causing locking, and tears in active patients causing significant mechanical symptoms, typically require surgical treatment.
Meniscal repair sutures the torn meniscus back together to restore its structural integrity and preserve its critical load-distributing function. Dr. Andrew Lee performs meniscal repair arthroscopically at Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas.
Through arthroscopic portals, the tear is identified and prepared. Sutures are passed through the torn meniscal tissue using specialized instruments and tied to reapproximate the tear. The suture pattern and technique depends on the tear type and location.
Preserving the meniscus with repair rather than removing it protects the articular cartilage from accelerated wear and reduces long-term arthritis risk. Dr. Lee considers repair versus partial meniscectomy based on tear characteristics, patient age, and associated ligament status.
Meniscal repair requires four to six weeks of non-weight-bearing or touch-down weight bearing to protect the healing tissue. Physical therapy begins with gentle range of motion.
Progressive weight bearing and strengthening follow as healing is confirmed. Return to sport requires four to six months following meniscal repair.
Mechanical symptoms such as clicking and catching typically resolve quickly after meniscal repair. Pain improvement is more gradual over the first few months.
Commitment to the protected weight bearing period is essential for allowing the repair to heal. Premature loading can cause repair failure.
No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Arthroscopic portal wounds are small. Keep them dry until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Anti-inflammatory medications are helpful during early recovery. Take all prescribed medications as directed.
Use crutches as prescribed and maintain the weight bearing restrictions during the protected healing period. Return to sport requires Dr. Lee’s clearance.
Contact Nevada Spine Clinic or go to the emergency room for sudden severe knee pain, locking, fever, or wound changes.
No bathtub, swimming, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Lee.
Dr. Andrew Lee, MD | Nevada Spine Clinic, Las Vegas
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