2 min read • August 31, 2020
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Chargers safety Derwin James has suffered a significant preseason injury for the second year in a row. He and his surgeon have a significant decision to make, and one that will affect this season and potentially his career. After initial speculation of a hamstring injury was proven incorrect, James is said to have a meniscus tear that needs surgery. His return will depend on whether the arthroscopic surgery is a menisectomy (trim) or repair (sewing). Last year he had a re-fracture of a 5th metatarsal which cost him most of his sophomore season. His delayed return was the exact timeline that was predicted upon injury. This year has much more variance and it could be significantly better or worse. If the meniscus is trimmed, James could be back by October. If the cartilage is repaired, he might miss most, if not all, of this season. The difference relates to healing time to sew the meniscus versus a trim. This is a huge medical distinction, one that media and lay people often confuse. Sometimes it is reported that a meniscus is “fixed” or “repaired” with surgery but the reality is that it was not sewn. Most players choose trimming for a quick return, but that may not be best for him in the long run due to increased risk of arthritis. Sometimes there is not much choice as the tear may not be amenable to sewing. At this point, the Chargers can only hope the tear is small and that a trim is the best plan. If there is a repair, his season is in jeopardy.
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