Meniscus Surgery in Mt. Washington, KY
The meniscus is the knee's cartilage shock absorber. Tears happen with twisting injuries in younger patients and with wear in older ones. Many tears settle with therapy and an injection; tears that lock, catch or keep swelling are treated arthroscopically by J. Steve Smith, MD.
Repair or trim?
Tears in the outer, blood-supplied part of the meniscus in younger patients can be stitched (repair). Tears in the inner part, or degenerative tears, are trimmed to a stable edge (partial meniscectomy). Repair protects the knee long term but recovers more slowly.
First steps in Mt. Washington
Exam and X-ray the same day with Kayla Troutman, PA-C or Michael Gilbert, PA-C at our Mt. Washington clinic. If an MRI is needed, it is done at our Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville (physician referral required). Injections and physical therapy are on site.
The procedure and recovery
Outpatient arthroscopy at our Louisville-area surgical facilities, usually under an hour. After a trim, most patients walk immediately and return to normal activity in four to six weeks. After a repair, weight-bearing and bending are limited for several weeks and full return takes three to four months. Physical therapy continues at Mt. Washington or any Louisville clinic.
Imaging and insurance
X-ray is on site; MRI, if needed, is at our Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville, including a high-field open MRI (physician referral required). We accept most major insurance plans, workers' compensation and auto-injury claims. We offer self-pay where there is no insurance, it is a non-covered service, and on a case-by-case basis.
Frequently asked questions
Does a torn meniscus always need surgery?
No. Degenerative tears without locking often improve with physical therapy and an injection. Surgery is for tears that lock, catch or keep the knee swollen.
Who does meniscus surgery for Mt. Washington patients?
J. Steve Smith, MD, Aptiva Health's Director of Orthopedics.
Where is the surgery done?
At our Louisville-area surgical facilities, about 20 minutes away; all other visits are at Mt. Washington.
How long until I can work?
Desk work within a few days after a trim; physical jobs two to six weeks depending on the procedure.
Call 502-909-0772, walk in 8 AM–4 PM Monday–Friday, or schedule online.