This can be done by a philosophically inclined, and experienced trained surgeon also under an arthroscopic technique and often under local anesthesia as well. There are numerous techniques available, some which can be done using the small puncture wounds, and some which require a large incision in the back corners of the knee. In general, the procedure involves roughing up the injured surfaces of the tear in some fashion, and placing sutures or another fixation device across the tear to keep the edges opposed to facilitate healing. A high quality repair is a technically demanding process. No bridges are burned with this procedure, and if repair is unsuccessful, a re-repair is possible or worse case scenario, partial meniscectomy.
Rehabilitation is often different from meniscectomy.
A les affaire approach similar to meniscectomy, is not recommended. A proper healing environment for the repaired meniscus is essential, and this includes restricting activities, a short period of crutch use, and avoidance of forceful bent knee activities such as squatting and vigorous bent leg weight lifting such as leg curls. It is difficult to tell from a clinical exam or an MRI, which tears are candidates for repair. In general, a repair can be considered pre-operatively, and this option should be discussed with the patient if an operation is planned. The patient must be prepared for the possibility as it is always preferential to repair the cartilage rather than remove it.