Mercy Orthopedics/Sports Medicine Physician Dr. John-Paul Rue Addresses Treatment for Torn Meniscus

It's very important to repair a meniscus tear.

The meniscus is a rubbery cartilage that acts like a shock absorber in your knee. You can tear your meniscus playing sports, or even just doing everyday activities.

"I just got cleared to play lacrosse again after eight months of tearing my ACL and meniscus," Maria Comella said while visiting Dr. John-Paul Rue, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with Orthopedics & Joint Replacement Mercy Medical Center.

Comella is a rising senior in high school and an accomplished lacrosse player, but she hasn't played since she was injured last November.

"We had a tournament and I was just dodging and my knee gave out," Comella said.

"In a young person with a significant injury, a sporting injury, maybe they have a torn ACL as well, a meniscus tear can really be a significant factor in their final outcome a few years down the road," Dr. Rue said.

According to Dr. Rue, repairing the meniscus involves suturing the tear as opposed to removing the damaged tissue. Doing a repair lengthens the patient's recovery time, but it means a better outcome down the road.

"The theory is if we can preserve the meniscus for the cushioning, shock absorption protection properties long-term, that's less risk of arthritis. That's our whole goal, to preserve the function of the knee for the long term prospects of the patient," Dr. Rue said.

Not only does Comella have her senior year of high school play to look forward to, she has already committed to playing lacrosse in college, and she can't wait.

"I'm really excited to get back on the field. I'm ready," Comella said.

To view Mercy orthopedics and sports medicine expert Dr. John-Paul Rue’s interview regarding torn meniscus repair, click here.