torn meniscus

[crspy]

I have bad arthritis in my knee.  My ortho doc (after MRI) says I tore the meniscus but he  thinks arthroscopy is a waste of my time and money since I have such thin cartilage.  He took all the fluid out and injected me with cortisone earlier today.  The pain is unbearable and the swelling is coming back already.  Has anyone had torn meniscus with advanced arthritis and had sucess with arthroscopy.  He says I am not ready yet for knee replacement.
thanks

[kel_pattons]

I also had a torn meniscus and have severe osteoarthritis in both knees, they would not do arthroscopic surgery on me either, because of previous surgueries and the scar tissue involved, my knee swelled up very large as well did my leg and ankle and foot. The pain was terrible and I could not walk right it was really bad. I called my orthopedic doctor and he referred me to a specialist that he had worked with, that doctor sent me to pain mangement and they started to do nerve blocks through my back to my knee, the nerve blocks helped block the pain which allowed me to walk properly and after about two months I was doing great and haven't had a problem since and that was two years ago, as the meniscus will heal itself if given the opportunity. Best of luck to you and I hope this helps.

[dr_simran]

Hi,
You can also try alternative medicines for pain releif.The cause of repeated effusions should be eveluated.You should take a second opinion as there seems to be some systemic cause behind the repeated effusions.
Best

[crspy]

I appreciate your input.  My biggest problems are the pain level.  Sometimes it is almost unbearable it burns so badly on the outside of my knee.  I am unable to take anti inflammatory meds and the cortisone injections create havoc with my blood sugar, but they continue to use them.  He drained all the fluid off and I can already tell it is starting to fill up again. I am just wondering if I need to go for a second opinion or is it too early.  Injured the meniscus 1 week ago.
Chris
aka crspy

[dr_simran]

Hello Dear,

Once diagnosed with a meniscus tear, a decision needs to be made regarding the treatment of this problem. Many meniscal tears, particularly chronic tears, can be treated non-operatively. non-operative treatments may include
• Physical therapy,
• Strengthening exercises,
• Anti-inflammatory medications, and
• Cortisone injections.
However, some meniscus tears may require surgical treatment.

A thin cartilage may not favour surgery .You should go in for conservative treatment and good rehabilitation.
Best