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There's a big difference if it's the ligament or if its the meniscus. And it also varies alot what type of repair is done on the meniscus.
If it's a torn ligament - like the ACL - it's a much bigger deal. I don't believe it's done arthroscopical. They actually take the ligament from a cadaver and replace the damaged ligament. It's several weeks,or longer, on crutches and then possibly 8 months of rehab. At least one person I know when to PT for 8 months.
Sometimes depending on your age and what type of sports you play, they don't replace the ligament - you just have to wear a serious stabilizing brace.
If it's the meniscus, that's usually done arthroscopically. But what they do depends on the damage, and again, your age and activity. If it's a slight tear, they may just remove the damaged part. I had a scope for a meniscus tear in November, and I was walking in 3 days. I'm finishing PT actually tomorrow, and will be playing when the softball season starts in a few weeks.
Sometimes they choose to repair the tear - and if they do that, it's 4 weeks on crutches. Repairing the tear as opposed to removing part of the meniscus gives you more cartilege, and thus less chance of getting arthrisitis later on.
Do you by any chance live near NYC. If so, I highly, highly recommend the Hosptial for Special Surgery. They're the team doctors for the Giants and the Mets, and they are the best.
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