Minimally Invasive

Meniscus Surgery

Dr. Ratner is an expert at Partial Meniscectomy & Meniscal Repair using Advanced Surgical Techniques.

Partial Meniscectomy + Meniscal Tear Repair

with Dr. Drew Rater

Meniscus tear surgery is used to treat a torn meniscus in the knee—a common injury that can cause pain, swelling, catching, or instability, often resulting from sports, trauma, or age-related degeneration.

At American Orthopedics in Greenville, SC, Dr. Drew Ratner treats meniscus tears using advanced, minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Depending on the type and location of the tear, he performs either a partial meniscectomy (removal of the torn tissue) or a meniscal repair (suturing the tear for healing).

These procedures are highly effective at relieving pain, restoring function, and preventing long-term damage—helping patients return to movement, sport, and daily life with confidence.

“Meniscus tears don’t have to keep you sidelined. With modern arthroscopic techniques, we can address the damage and get you back to activity with minimal downtime.”

- Dr. Drew Ratner, MD, Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

Why Patients Choose Dr. Ratner

The region’s most preferred orthopedic surgeon

When it comes to treating knee injuries, experience and precision matter. Dr. Ratner is a fellowship-trained orthopedic sports medicine specialist who treats a wide range of knee conditions—from weekend warrior injuries to high-level athletic tears—with modern techniques and personalized care.

Meniscus Injury Repair

Read logans story

When Logan injured his meniscus a couple of years ago, we were devastated and worried about how it might affect his ability to play football. Dr. Ratner not only gave us confidence from the very beginning, but he also provided excellent care and skill throughout the entire process. The surgery went smoothly, and Logan’s recovery was even better than we could have imagined.

Today, Logan is back on the field playing the sport he loves without limitations. We are so grateful for Dr. Ratner’s expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for his patients. He truly changed the trajectory of Logan’s athletic future, and we couldn’t recommend him more highly.

Proudly serving professional, collegiate, and high school athletes since 2018

We welcome weekend warriors and patients of all ages.

Whether you’ve sustained a sports injury or are facing a chronic issue, American Orthopedics is focused on getting you back to life— competing, training, exercising, or simply feeling your best.

How the procedures work.

Partial Meniscectomy

This procedure involves trimming and removing the torn or unstable portion of the meniscus while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

It is typically used when the tear is in a region of the meniscus that does not have a good blood supply and is unlikely to heal on its own.

Meniscal Repair

If the tear is in a vascular (well-supplied with blood) zone and has good healing potential, Dr. Ratner may perform a meniscal repair.

This involves stitching the torn edges together using sutures or special devices so the tissue can heal naturally over time.

Both procedures are performed arthroscopically—using small incisions, a camera, and specialized instruments—which allows for quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and less post-operative pain.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for meniscus surgery if you:

Have knee pain, swelling, or catching/locking that limits your activities
Have imaging (such as MRI) that confirms a torn meniscus
Have not improved with rest, bracing, or physical therapy
Are active and want to restore full function to your knee

Dr. Ratner will evaluate your tear type, activity level, and goals to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Benefits of Meniscus Surgery

Whether you undergo a partial meniscectomy or a meniscal repair, the goal is to reduce pain, improve knee function, and prevent further damage to the joint. Benefits include:

Pain Relief: Removal or repair of the damaged tissue alleviates pressure and inflammation.
Restored Knee Motion: Locking, catching, or restricted motion typically resolves after surgery.
Stabilization of the Knee: Especially important for athletes or individuals who perform pivoting or squatting motions.
Prevention of Joint Degeneration: Prompt treatment of a meniscus tear may reduce the risk of long-term cartilage wear and osteoarthritis.

What to Expect

Experience advance care at American Orthopedics.

2. The Procedure

Meniscus surgery is performed arthroscopically through tiny incisions around the knee. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis—meaning you go home the same day.

- Partial Meniscectomy: The torn or unstable part of the meniscus is trimmed and removed.

- Meniscal Repair: Sutures or small anchors are used to sew the torn edges together and stabilize the tissue.

Dr. Ratner will choose the best approach for your specific injury during surgery based on what is seen inside the joint.

3. After Surgery

Recovery varies based on the procedure performed:

- After Partial Meniscectomy:

Walking with crutches for 1–2 days (or not needed at all)

- Light activity resumed within 1–2 weeks

- Return to full activity or sports often within 4–6 weeks

- After Meniscal Repair:

- Crutches and limited weight-bearing for 3–4 weeks

- Bracing may be required to protect the repair

- Return to sports typically takes 3–4 months, depending on healing and rehab progress

Dr. Ratner and his team will guide you through every step of recovery and monitor your progress with follow-up visits.

Advanced care for maxium results & comfort