Partial meniscectomy
Partial meniscectomy is keyhole surgery to remove the unstable damaged section of a torn meniscus. The surgeon preserves as much healthy cartilage as possible to smooth the tear and help the knee move more comfortably.
Partial meniscectomy overview
The menisci are two pieces of cartilage that cushion and stabilise the knee. A partial meniscectomy may be considered when a tear cannot be repaired and continues to cause pain, catching or locking despite non-surgical treatment.
How is surgery carried out?
The procedure is carried out using arthroscopy. A small camera is passed into the knee through a small incision so the surgeon can examine the joint. Fine instruments are used through other small incisions to remove only the unstable or frayed part of the meniscus and smooth the remaining edge.
Are there any risks?
Complications are uncommon, but every operation carries risks. Your surgeon will explain these before you decide whether to proceed. Possible complications include:
- infection
- a blood clot in the leg, known as deep vein thrombosis
- swelling or stiffness
- ongoing pain or mechanical symptoms
- damage to nearby structures
- the need for further treatment if symptoms continue
Recovery from partial meniscectomy
Restoring movement
Many people regain full knee movement and can walk short distances without a limp within around two weeks. Focus on reducing swelling, straightening and bending the knee, and rebuilding a comfortable walking pattern.
Low-impact activity
If swelling is controlled and movement and strength are progressing, you may begin low-impact exercise such as cycling. Follow the programme agreed with your physiotherapist.
Returning to sport
Some people regain enough general fitness to return to sport within four to eight weeks. Your timing will depend on your knee, the sport and your strength and movement tests.
Our Experts - Leaders in Soft Tissue and Sports Knee Treatments
Dedicated to restoring your mobility through advanced surgical care, tailored rehabilitation programmes, and compassionate, evidence-based patient support.
Mr Andrew Davies
Knee: Soft Tissue and Sports Injuries, Knee Replacement
London, Wimbledon
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Mr. Giles Heilpern
Knee Replacement, Knee: Soft Tissue and Sports Injuries
London, Wimbledon
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Mr Oliver Templeton-Ward
Knee: Soft Tissue and Sports Injuries, Knee Replacement
London, Wimbledon
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Mr Jonathon Lavelle
Knee: Soft Tissue and Sports Injuries, Knee Replacement
London, Wimbledon
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How to pay
We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.
Private medical insurance
If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.
Paying for yourself
You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.
Find a clinic near you
Fortius Clinic London
Our 79,000 sq ft, seven-story, private hospital on Wigmore Street has 39 en-suite inpatient rooms, consultation and treatment rooms, and a physiotherapy suite.
The hospital has a high-spec imaging suite fully equipped with an MRI, CT scanner and X-ray machine. There are three state-of-the-art operating theatres, two anaesthetic rooms and a recovery bay.
Fortius Clinic London has two Mako robots for hip and knee joint replacements.
- 66 Wigmore Street W1U 2SB
- 0203 195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Sports & Exercise Medicine
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Tendon Clinic
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
- CT Scan
- Image guided injections
- Physiotherapy
- MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement
Fortius Clinic Wimbledon
Our Wimbledon clinic houses a state-of-the-art imaging centre with a 3T MRI and X-ray scanners, Ultrasound, seven consulting rooms, two spacious waiting areas and well equipped treatment rooms all located on one level, ensuring easy accessibility for all patients.
Our partnership with Spire St Anthony’s Hospital allows us to provide orthopaedic surgery closer to our clinic. We treat a full range of conditions and perform joint replacement surgery using the latest Mako robotic assisted technology.
The building at 22 Worple Road has steps leading up to the front entrance. If you require assistance please inform us before your arrival by calling ahead on 020 3195 2442
- 22 Worple Road SW19 4DD
- 0203 195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
Fortius Clinic Marylebone
Our Marylebone Clinic is conveniently located in the historic area between Baker Street and Marylebone High Street, just off Manchester Square, home to the iconic Wallace Collection. We have seven consulting rooms, private waiting areas on each floor, well equipped treatment rooms and diagnostic imaging.
- 17 Fitzhardinge StreetW1H 6EQ
- 020 3195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
Fortius Clinic City
Our City Clinic is conveniently located between Bank and Monument stations, within the historic and financial heart of London. At our modern, two-floor facility we have nine consulting rooms, spacious waiting areas, well equipped treatment rooms and an imaging centre.
Explore our City Clinic with our virtual tour.
If you are travelling by Tube, our closest underground stations are Bank and Monument, exit 6 for King William Street.
Should you be travelling by car, the closest parking is a three minute drive away at NCP Car Park London Vintry Thames Exchange. If you are attending clinic on a weekday, please be aware that we are based in the congestion charge zone.
- 75 King William Street EC4N 7BE
- 0203 195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Tendon Clinic
- Sports & Exercise Medicine
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
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