Treatment of Meniscus Injury

The meniscus is an important cartilage structure of the knee joint, prone to injury during exercise or rupture due to age-related degeneration. Young patients often suffer acute injuries from intense activity, while middle-aged and elderly patients mostly experience degenerative tears. Treatment options include conservative therapy, medication, surgical repair, and cellular therapy. If treatment is delayed, the condition can lead to decreased joint stability, functional loss, or even early osteoarthritis, severely affecting quality of life.

Emerging Treatment Methods

Stem Cell Therapy --- Joint Reconstruction

Stem cell-based joint reconstruction is one of the most promising treatments for meniscus injury after traditional surgery. By harnessing the strong regenerative capacity of stem cells and combining them with PRP rich in growth factors, targeted injections can effectively promote meniscus cartilage regeneration and repair. Advantages of joint reconstruction:

① Early intervention in lesions: Suitable for mild to moderate tears, delaying structural degeneration

② Strong repair capacity: Potential to promote cartilage and soft tissue regeneration

③ Relief of chronic inflammation: Improves joint environment and reduces synovial irritation

④ Reduced surgical risks: Provides an alternative for those unsuitable or unwilling to undergo surgery

⑤ Better functional recovery: Enhances knee stability and athletic ability

Conventional Treatment Methods

1. Conservative Therapy

Mild meniscus injuries can be managed with rest, ice packs, and limited activity. Doctors may also recommend wearing knee braces and avoiding weight-bearing to reduce stress on the joint and promote natural healing.

2. Medication

Commonly used NSAIDs help relieve pain and swelling. In some cases, hyaluronic acid injections are used to improve synovial fluid quality. Medications are typically adjunctive and work best in combination with other therapies.

3. Physical Rehabilitation Therapy

Physiotherapy methods such as ultrasound, cold compresses, hot compresses, and electrical stimulation help relieve discomfort. Combined with rehabilitation training, these enhance muscle strength, stabilize the knee, and restore joint mobility, which is especially important for postoperative recovery.

4. Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Surgery

When severe meniscus tears or locking occur and conservative treatment fails, arthroscopy can be used for partial meniscectomy or meniscus repair. This minimally invasive technique allows quick recovery and effectively addresses structural damage.

5. Meniscus Transplantation

For younger patients or those with severe meniscus deficiency, doctors may recommend meniscus transplantation. Implanting a donor meniscus restores cushioning and knee function while preventing osteoarthritic changes.

6. Combined Treatment Strategies

In some cases, doctors develop combined treatment strategies based on severity, such as stem cell therapy combined with physiotherapy, or surgery paired with postoperative rehabilitation, to maximize treatment effectiveness.

Conclusion

Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that meniscus injury requires individualized treatment strategies. Stem cell therapy, as a novel approach, has shown promising repair potential in many clinical cases. Experts recommend early consultation, combined with professional evaluation, to choose the most suitable treatment plan, aiming for full recovery of joint function, relief from pain, and improved quality of life.