If you’re struggling with knee pain or discomfort caused by a meniscus injury, you’re not alone.
Fortunately, with expert care from Dr. Paul Macnamara—a highly experienced British doctor and one of the best meniscus surgeons in Dubai—you can regain your mobility, reduce pain, and return to the activities you love. Combining world-class expertise with compassionate care, Dr. Macnamara is a trusted choice for athletes and non-athletes alike.
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee joint that acts as a cushion and stabilizer. Injuries to the meniscus are often caused by:
Symptoms of a meniscus tear include:
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to seek prompt evaluation. Dr. Macnamara is a meniscus tear surgery expert in Dubai and can determine the best course of action for your recovery.
For minor tears, non-surgical treatments such as rest, physical therapy, or injections may suffice However, more severe injuries, such as a meniscus tear, often require surgery. For meniscus tear surgery, Dr. Macnamara provides minimally invasive procedures in the UAE, utilizing advanced arthroscopic techniques at some of the best hospitals for knee surgery in Dubai.
These advanced techniques in meniscus surgery are performed through small keyhole incisions, reducing scarring, minimizing pain, and promoting a faster recovery.
In this video Dr Paul Macnamara answers your most common questions about Meniscus Surgery in Dubai.
The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage in the knee joint, located between the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). It acts as the knee’s shock absorber, cushioning the joint and ensuring smooth movement during activities.
A torn meniscus often causes knee pain, swelling, and stiffness. Mechanical symptoms like catching, locking, or instability are common. Acute injuries may follow activities like playing football, while long-standing tears cause discomfort, reduced mobility, and noticeable differences compared to the unaffected knee.
Surgery is recommended for tears causing persistent pain, swelling, or mechanical symptoms that limit activity. While minor or degenerative tears might be managed without surgery, active individuals or those with acute injuries often benefit from surgical intervention. Recent medical advancements emphasize preserving the meniscus whenever possible.
Walking is possible with some meniscus tears, especially degenerative ones. However, acute tears from injuries, such as playing sports, may make walking painful and unstable. In such cases, professional evaluation is advised to determine the best treatment plan.
Healing depends on the tear’s severity and location. The meniscus has limited blood supply, which reduces its natural healing ability. Surgical repairs take approximately 6–8 weeks for recovery, while untreated tears may not heal fully, especially in areas with poor vascularization.
The best treatment depends on factors like the tear’s size, location, and the patient’s age and activity level. Meniscal repair is preferred for preserving cartilage, with a success rate of 75%. Meniscectomy, or removing the damaged portion, offers a higher success rate (95–98%) but may not be ideal for all cases.
A meniscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure where the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed to alleviate pain and instability. The surgeon uses small incisions and specialized instruments to trim the tear. This outpatient procedure typically allows patients to return home the same day
Meniscus surgery involves minimal discomfort. Most patients manage post-surgery pain with anti-inflammatory medications or paracetamol. Strong painkillers like opioids are usually unnecessary, and pain subsides within a few days.
Recovery varies depending on the individual and the procedure performed. Some patients resume light activities within a week, while others may require up to 6 weeks for full recovery. Factors like age, activity level, and the extent of the surgery influence recovery time.
While most patients feel symptom-free soon after surgery, it’s essential to allow proper healing. Avoid intense sports for at least 4–5 weeks post-surgery. Returning to high-impact activities too early may risk re-injury.