How long does it take to heal after arthroscopy?

What are the long term ill-effects of arthroscopy for meniscal tear? Does long distance running/cycling post-surgery cause further (irreparable) damage?

• I had to undergo arthroscopy for a meniscal tear in my left knee in November 2011. Since then I have completed one Ironman 70.3 triathlon, 2 full marathons, and gone on a 1000km long cycling trip among others. So far, my knee hasn't caused any problems. I read that meniscus, once damaged, doesn't heal and hence a meniscal tear is more or less permanent damage to the knee. Are there any problems this can cause in future? If so, what  measures can I take to minimize the risks?

• Answer:

  In the past, we treated a meniscus tear with complete meniscus removal. Early arthritis was seen at 10 years, severe by 20. Now we repair when possible, remove only what is necessary. If you had less than 15% removed, I would not worry. If more, stay thin, run softly and be a little nicer to your knees. There are no drugs, supplements, operations, tricks to replace what is gone. If most the meniscus was taken, a transplant is done for salvage.