A widely performed knee procedure known as partial meniscectomy may not deliver the benefits many patients expect. A major study with a 10-year follow-up has found that trimming a damaged meniscus does not improve symptoms or knee function when compared to a placebo procedure.

Partial meniscectomy is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries worldwide. While its use has declined in Finland in recent years, it remains a routine treatment in many countries.

10-Year Study Finds Worse Outcomes After Surgery

The long-term results paint a concerning picture. Patients who underwent partial meniscectomy did not experience better outcomes than those who had sham surgery. In fact, they tended to do worse.

After a decade, these patients reported more knee symptoms and poorer function.…