Is it true that meniscus repair always fails? Common myths about meniscus repair

Myth: repairs usually fail

Most repairs in suitable tears heal well enough to protect the knee. A proportion re-tear, more so in complex tears, in delayed repairs or in unstable knees. When a repair does fail, the torn part can usually be trimmed at that stage, so attempting repair rarely closes doors.

Myth: recovery is the same as trimming

After a partial meniscectomy, many people walk freely within days. After a repair, the healing tissue must be protected, so there are usually limits on deep bending and sometimes on weight-bearing for several weeks, and pivoting sport waits for several months. Planning work, prayer and travel around this is part of the decision.

Myth: if it feels fine, it has healed

Pain often settles within weeks, long before the repair has matured. Deep squats, kneeling on the heels, or a sudden twist in that window can disrupt healing. Following the timeline, rather than how the knee feels, is the safer approach.

Myths about who can have it

• Only athletes get repairs: any patient with a suitable tear can benefit, including office and manual workers
• Over 40 means no repair: age matters less than tissue quality, tear pattern and arthritis
• Any tear can be stitched: frayed, degenerative tears in the inner zone usually cannot heal

Dr. Gelber explains, at a consultation in Doha, which of these applies to your own tear.