Medically reviewed by Dr. Jitesh Jain | MBBS, MS Orthopedics, FNB (Sports Medicine & Arthroscopy) | Consultant at Rajasthan Hospital, Jaipur
Your doctor has told you that you need meniscus tear surgery. Naturally, your mind is full of questions. How is the surgery done? Will it hurt? How long will recovery take? And most importantly, how much will it cost?
If you're in Jaipur or anywhere in Rajasthan and looking for answers, you're in the right place. Dr. Jitesh Jain, one of Jaipur's most trusted orthopaedic and sports injury specialists, has performed hundreds of arthroscopic knee surgeries. In this article, he breaks down everything you need to know about meniscus tear surgery so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
When Does a Meniscus Tear Need Surgery?
Not every meniscus tear requires surgery. Small tears in the outer part of the meniscus (where blood supply is better) can sometimes heal on their own with rest, medicines, and physiotherapy. But surgery becomes necessary when:
The tear is large or complex and won't heal on its own.
Your knee keeps locking or catching, meaning a torn piece is getting stuck inside the joint.
Pain and swelling haven't improved after 4 to 6 weeks of conservative treatment.
You have a bucket-handle tear, which is a specific type of tear that blocks the knee from fully straightening. This usually needs urgent surgery.
You're an active person or athlete who needs full knee function to get back to sports or physical work.
Dr. Jitesh Jain always tries non-surgical options first. Surgery is only recommended when it's clear that the knee won't recover properly without it. If you're unsure whether your tear needs surgery, you can read more about knee ligament and cartilage injuries and how they are treated.
Types of Meniscus Tear Surgery
Meniscus surgery is done through a procedure called knee arthroscopy. It's a minimally invasive surgery where a small camera (arthroscope) and thin surgical instruments are inserted into the knee through 2 to 3 tiny cuts, each less than 1 cm. There's no large incision, no major blood loss, and recovery is much faster than traditional open surgery.
Depending on the type and location of your tear, Dr. Jitesh Jain will perform one of the following:
1. Meniscus Repair (Stitching the Tear)
This is the ideal surgery when possible. The torn edges of the meniscus are stitched back together using special sutures or anchors. The goal is to save as much of the meniscus as possible because it plays a crucial role in protecting your knee cartilage long-term.
Meniscus repair is especially preferred for younger patients and athletes, and for tears in the outer zone of the meniscus (called the "red zone") where blood supply is good and healing is more likely.
2. Partial Meniscectomy (Trimming the Torn Part)
When the tear is in an area with poor blood supply (the "white zone") or the tissue is too damaged to stitch, the surgeon trims and removes only the damaged portion. The rest of the healthy meniscus is preserved. This is the more common procedure and has a faster recovery.
Which One Will You Get?
Dr. Jitesh Jain makes this decision during the arthroscopy itself, after directly looking at the tear through the camera. The MRI gives a good idea beforehand, but the final call is made when the surgeon can see the actual condition of the meniscus from inside the knee. He always prioritises repair over removal whenever the tear allows it.
What Happens Before the Surgery?
Being well-prepared makes a big difference in your comfort level and recovery. Here's what typically happens before your meniscus surgery at Rajasthan Hospital, Jaipur:
Consultation and MRI review: Dr. Jitesh Jain will examine your knee, review your MRI scans, and explain the surgery plan in detail. Feel free to ask all your questions during this visit.
Blood tests and pre-anaesthesia check: Standard blood work and a fitness assessment by the anaesthesia team to make sure you're safe for surgery.
Fasting: You'll be asked not to eat or drink anything for 6 to 8 hours before surgery.
Medicines: If you're on blood thinners or any regular medicines, the doctor may ask you to stop or adjust them a few days before surgery.
Clothing and accessories: Wear loose, comfortable clothes on the day of surgery. Avoid jewellery and nail polish. If you have a similar surgery coming up for another joint, you may want to check the pre-surgery preparation checklist for a more detailed guide.
Bring a companion: You'll need someone to drive you home after the procedure. You won't be able to drive yourself.
What Happens During the Surgery?
Here's a step-by-step look at what happens inside the operation theatre:
Step 1: Anaesthesia. You'll be given either spinal anaesthesia (you're awake but numb from the waist down) or general anaesthesia (you're completely asleep). The anaesthetist will decide what's best for you based on your health.
Step 2: Small incisions. Two to three tiny cuts (called portals) are made around the knee. One is for the camera, and the others are for the surgical instruments.
Step 3: Camera insertion. The arthroscope goes into the knee and projects a magnified, high-definition image of the inside of your joint on a screen. This allows the surgeon to see exactly what's going on.
Step 4: Treating the tear. Based on what the surgeon sees, the meniscus is either repaired (stitched) or partially trimmed. If there are any other issues like loose cartilage pieces or early cartilage damage, those can be addressed at the same time.
Step 5: Closure. The instruments are removed, the small cuts are closed with one or two stitches or surgical strips, and a bandage is applied.
The entire procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. It's one of the most commonly performed orthopaedic surgeries in the world, and in experienced hands like Dr. Jitesh Jain's, the process is smooth, safe, and efficient. Dr. Jitesh Jain is also recognised as one of the best arthroscopic surgeons in Jaipur, with fellowship training from internationally renowned centres.
What Happens After the Surgery?
Most meniscus surgeries are daycare procedures, meaning you can go home the same day or the next morning. Here's what to expect in the hours and days after your surgery:
In the recovery room: You'll rest for a couple of hours while the anaesthesia wears off. The nursing team will monitor your vitals and manage your pain.
Pain management: You'll be given painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines. Most patients describe the post-surgery pain as mild to moderate, much less than they expected.
Ice and elevation: Keeping ice on your knee and elevating your leg helps reduce swelling in the first few days. This makes a noticeable difference in comfort.
Walking: After a partial meniscectomy, most patients start walking with support (crutches or a walker) the same day. After a meniscus repair, weight-bearing may be restricted for a few weeks to allow the stitches to heal.
Bandage and wound care: The small incisions are covered with a dressing. You'll be told when to come back for a wound check, usually within 5 to 7 days.
Physiotherapy starts early: Gentle exercises begin within the first week itself. Early movement is important to prevent stiffness and start rebuilding strength.
Recovery Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
This is the question every patient asks. The honest answer is: it depends on the type of surgery you had.
After Partial Meniscectomy
Week 1: Walking with support, gentle range-of-motion exercises, managing swelling with ice.
Week 2 to 3: Most patients can walk without crutches and start doing light daily activities like going to the office, cooking, or driving a car.
Week 4 to 6: Back to most normal activities. Light jogging and gym work can begin if comfortable.
Week 6 to 8: Return to sports and high-impact activities with proper rehabilitation. Check out these exercises for knee pain that can support your recovery.
After Meniscus Repair
Week 1 to 2: Limited weight-bearing. You'll use crutches and may wear a knee brace. Gentle exercises as guided by your physiotherapist.
Week 3 to 6: Gradual increase in weight-bearing. Brace may be removed. Physiotherapy becomes more active with strengthening exercises.
Month 2 to 3: Walking normally, doing daily activities, starting light physical work.
Month 3 to 6: Progressive return to sports. Full recovery and clearance for high-impact activities. For a detailed recovery exercise plan, see our guide on exercises after meniscus repair.
Dr. Jitesh Jain creates a personalised rehabilitation plan for every patient. Recovery is not just about time; it's about doing the right exercises at the right stage. Skipping physiotherapy is the biggest mistake patients make after meniscus surgery.
How Much Does Meniscus Tear Surgery Cost in Jaipur?
This is understandably one of the first questions patients and families ask. Here's a realistic breakdown:
Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in Jaipur typically costs between ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 depending on the hospital, the surgeon, and whether you're in a general or private room.
Arthroscopic meniscus repair costs slightly more because it involves specialised implants (sutures/anchors). The typical range is ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000.
What's Included in the Cost?
At Rajasthan Hospital, the surgery package typically includes the surgeon's fees, anaesthesia charges, operation theatre charges, implant costs (for repair), one day of hospitalisation, medicines, and initial post-operative care.
Insurance and Cashless Options
Meniscus surgery is covered under most health insurance plans, including government schemes like RGHS, CGHS, and Ayushman Bharat. Rajasthan Hospital in Jaipur offers cashless surgery under most major insurance providers. If you've had experience with insurance for similar knee surgeries, the process for cashless ACL surgery works in a very similar way.
Why Jaipur Is a Smart Choice
Compared to Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, meniscus surgery in Jaipur costs significantly less without any compromise on quality. Dr. Jitesh Jain uses the same international-grade equipment, implants, and surgical techniques used in the best hospitals worldwide. You get the same results at a fraction of the metro-city cost.
Why Choose Dr. Jitesh Jain for Meniscus Surgery in Jaipur?
Choosing the right surgeon makes a real difference in your outcome. Here's why patients across Rajasthan and beyond trust Dr. Jitesh Jain for their knee surgeries:
Specialised training: FNB in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy, with international fellowships from Hong Kong (SICOT) and Singapore (Lee Shaw Fellowship). He's not a general orthopaedic surgeon who does arthroscopy on the side. Knee arthroscopy and sports injuries are his core expertise.
Hundreds of successful arthroscopies: Dr. Jitesh Jain has performed a large number of knee arthroscopies for meniscus tears, ACL injuries, cartilage damage, and other knee conditions.
Published author: He is the author of Fundamentals of Orthopedics (Jaypee Publications), which speaks to his depth of knowledge and academic standing.
Patient-first approach: Surgery is always the last option, never the first. Dr. Jitesh Jain takes the time to explain your condition, explore non-surgical options, and only recommends surgery when it's truly needed.
Advanced technology: Rajasthan Hospital is equipped with high-definition arthroscopy systems and the latest robotic surgery technology for joint procedures.
Risks and Complications: What You Should Know
Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is one of the safest orthopaedic procedures, but like any surgery, it carries a small degree of risk. Being aware of these helps you make an informed decision.
Infection: Very rare (less than 1%) due to the minimally invasive nature and strict sterilisation protocols. Antibiotics are given before and after surgery to minimise this risk.
Stiffness: Some temporary stiffness is normal. This is exactly why early physiotherapy is so important. It resolves in most patients within a few weeks.
Blood clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a rare but possible complication. Early mobilisation, compression stockings, and blood thinners (if prescribed) help prevent this.
Re-tear: After a meniscus repair, there is a small chance (around 10 to 15%) that the repaired meniscus may tear again, especially if patients return to activity too early or skip rehabilitation.
Nerve or blood vessel injury: Extremely rare due to the controlled, camera-guided nature of arthroscopy.
In Dr. Jitesh Jain's practice, complication rates are very low because of meticulous surgical technique, proper patient selection, and thorough follow-up care.
Life After Meniscus Surgery: What Changes?
The whole point of surgery is to get you back to your normal life. And for the vast majority of patients, that's exactly what happens. Here's what you can expect long-term:
Daily activities: Walking, climbing stairs, driving, cooking, working at a desk, all of these should return to normal within a few weeks.
Sitting on the floor: Many Indian patients ask about this specifically. After full recovery (usually 3 to 6 months for repair, 6 to 8 weeks for meniscectomy), most people can sit cross-legged and squat comfortably again.
Sports and exercise: Yes, you can go back to playing cricket, badminton, going to the gym, and running. The key is completing your rehabilitation fully and building strength before returning to high-impact activities. Read more about preventing sports injuries once you're back in action.
Long-term knee health: Preserving the meniscus (through repair rather than removal) significantly reduces your risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life. This is why Dr. Jitesh Jain always tries to repair when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is meniscus tear surgery a major surgery?
No. Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure done through tiny cuts. It's a daycare surgery, and most patients go home the same day. It's one of the most commonly performed knee surgeries in the world.
How many days of hospital stay are needed?
Usually one day or less. Most patients are admitted in the morning, have surgery, and go home by evening or the next morning.
Will I need crutches after surgery?
After a partial meniscectomy, you may use crutches for a few days for comfort, but many patients walk without them within 2 to 3 days. After a meniscus repair, crutches are usually needed for 4 to 6 weeks.
When can I drive after meniscus surgery?
After a partial meniscectomy on your left knee, you may be able to drive an automatic car within a week. For the right knee, it may take 2 to 3 weeks. After a meniscus repair, driving is usually safe after 6 weeks. Always confirm with your surgeon first.
When can I go back to work?
If you have a desk job, you can usually return within 1 to 2 weeks after a partial meniscectomy. For physically demanding jobs, it may take 4 to 8 weeks. After a meniscus repair, desk work can resume in 2 to 3 weeks, but physical work may take 3 to 4 months.
Is the surgery done under local or general anaesthesia?
Most commonly, spinal anaesthesia is used, which numbs you from the waist down while you stay awake. General anaesthesia (where you're asleep) is also an option. The anaesthetist will decide based on your health and preference.
Can the meniscus tear again after surgery?
After a meniscus repair, there's a small chance of re-tear (around 10 to 15%), especially if you rush back to activity too soon. After a partial meniscectomy, the remaining meniscus can tear again if exposed to repeated trauma, but this is uncommon with proper care.
Does insurance cover meniscus tear surgery?
Yes. Most health insurance plans, including RGHS, CGHS, and Ayushman Bharat, cover arthroscopic meniscus surgery. Rajasthan Hospital offers cashless surgery under most major insurers. Contact Dr. Jitesh Jain's team to verify your specific plan.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you've been diagnosed with a meniscus tear and surgery has been recommended, don't let fear or uncertainty hold you back. Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is a safe, well-established procedure with excellent outcomes, especially when done by an experienced specialist.
Dr. Jitesh Jain at Rajasthan Hospital, Jaipur, combines world-class training, advanced arthroscopic technology, and a patient-first approach to give you the best possible result. Whether it's a meniscus repair, a partial meniscectomy, or even a complex multi-ligament injury, you're in safe hands.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward getting back on your feet.