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Meniscus Repair And Transplant Specialist

Kristofer J. Jones, MD Our Services Meniscus Repair and Transplant
Kristofer J. Jones, MD - - Orthopedic Surgeon

Kristofer J. Jones, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine & Cartilage Restoration Specialist located in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA & Downtown Los Angeles, CA

A torn meniscus can be obvious — characterized by swelling, pain, and locking in your knee — or subtle and perhaps even passed off as an ache or pain. If you’re experiencing knee pain, stiffness, or swelling, it’s important to be evaluated by a doctor who specializes in orthopedic injuries and disorders. For a surgeon with extensive experience in meniscus repair surgery in the Los Angeles area, contact Dr. Kristofer J. Jones today. Take the first step toward a complete recovery by scheduling a consultation appointment with Dr. Jones online today. While located in Westwood, we are proud to serve surrounding areas such as Santa Monica, Brentwood, Century City, Culver City, Downtown, and Sherman Oaks.

Meniscus Repair and Transplant Q & A

What is a torn meniscus?

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that cushions the joint between your thighbone and your shinbone. Injury or wear and tear can cause this cartilage to tear, making it difficult to bend your knee and causing pain. A torn meniscus is a common knee injury.

What are the signs and symptoms of a torn meniscus?

These signs and symptoms might indicate a torn meniscus and require medical attention:

  • Your knee feels as if it’s locked in place
  • You notice a popping sensation when trying to straighten the knee
  • Pain, especially when your knee rotates even slightly
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Inability to fully straighten the knee

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact Dr. Jones for an appointment in the Los Angeles area.

What causes a torn meniscus?

Older adults can tear their meniscus without experiencing any memorable event due to the wear and tear their knees have suffered over the years. Younger people often tear their meniscus playing sports that require deep squatting, sudden turning and stopping, and pivoting.

How is a torn meniscus diagnosed?

Dr. Jones takes X-rays to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms. When the X-ray is negative, he may recommend an MRI to diagnose a torn meniscus. In some cases, he may perform arthroscopic surgery to accurately visualize internal structures and correct problems through miniscule incisions.

How do you treat torn meniscus?

In most cases, it’s appropriate to try conservative approaches before surgery. These include rest, frequent icing, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or pain relievers. Physical therapy may also help support and stabilize your knee.

When these treatments don’t work or the tear is severe, surgery is often the best option. There are two kinds of surgery available to patients with this injury: meniscus repair and meniscus transplant.

The primary goal of repair surgery is to repair the tear. When that’s not possible, the meniscus may be trimmed to create a smooth cushion that allows full range of motion.

Meniscus transplant surgery, however, provides you with a healthy cadaver meniscus. This procedure is rare and only recommended for patients who are younger than 55, but Dr. Jones is one of very few surgeons in the world who is trained and experienced in meniscus transplant.

If you’re ready to find out if you have a torn meniscus, don’t hesitate any further: Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jones today online or by phone.

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