Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are potential side effects associated with the general anaesthetics which are used. These can include feeling sick after surgery, having a sore throat or having a headache. Rarely are people allergic to some of the anaesthetic agents.

Your doctor will discuss any health issues you may have such as diabetes, heart disease and respiratory diseases, and although these are common issues, they do not normally prevent surgery from occurring.

Risks associated with surgery include infection, blood clots in the leg, and damage to blood vessels or nerves within the leg. About 8 out of 10 meniscal repairs will heal well. It is therefore possible to follow rehabilitation guidelines properly and not participate in sports for at least 3 months after a meniscal repair, or you risk having the repair fail, leading to another surgery.