Knee Pain at 36: MRI Reveals a Torn Meniscus

Persistent knee pain, even if bearable and not caused by an injury, should not be ignored. An orthopaedic assessment, supplemented where necessary by imaging investigations, can identify the exact cause of the problem and guide appropriate treatment to relieve symptoms and preserve knee function.

Such was the case with Adelina, a 36-year-old woman who began experiencing pain and discomfort in her right knee. The symptoms appeared particularly when she bent her leg or held it in a certain position, and at times the pain would also worsen when walking. There was no obvious explanation, as she had not suffered any accident nor engaged in intense sporting activities.

After approximately a month during which the discomfort did not subside, Adelina attended a consultation with Dr. Vladimir Pușcașu, a primary care specialist in orthopaedics and traumatology at Spitalul Clinic SANADOR. The clinical examination revealed pain on the inner side of the right knee and signs suggesting meniscal damage. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor recommended an MRI scan, which identified a tear of the medial meniscus of the right knee.

Taking into account the type and location of the injury, the persistence of symptoms, and the clinical examination results, the doctor determined that surgical intervention was necessary. Dr. Pușcașu explained to the patient the reasons why surgery was recommended and what risks delaying treatment would have entailed.

Arthroscopic Procedure

Adelina was admitted to Spitalul Clinic SANADOR for surgical treatment via knee arthroscopy — a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions, in which a video camera and fine instruments are introduced into the joint to examine and treat the injury.

During the operation, the surgeon confirmed a complex injury to the body and posterior horn of the medial meniscus. The affected portion was excised and smoothed arthroscopically, with the remaining structures of the joint found to be intact. The procedure was carried out under spinal anaesthesia, in accordance with the established plan.

Recovery

The recovery progressed better than Adelina had expected. She mobilised quickly, following the doctor's guidance, and was discharged after a single night in hospital. At her follow-up appointment, her sutures were removed and, in line with her individual treatment plan, she received an intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid. The pain resolved, and Adelina gradually resumed her usual activities in accordance with her medical recommendations.

At Spitalul Clinic SANADOR, patients have access to orthopaedic and traumatology consultations, advanced imaging investigations, and modern orthopaedic surgical procedures, including minimally invasive approaches, tailored to each individual case. Procedures are carried out in a fully equipped operating theatre, supported by a Category I Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, and following surgery, patients may undertake individualised medical rehabilitation programmes based on their doctor's recommendation.