Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair

Overview

The menisci are pieces of cartilage in the knee that help to absorb pressure on the knee joint by preventing the shinbone and thighbone from rubbing together. They can be torn apart by sudden twisting motions. This type of injury can occur at any age. Tears are more common in athletes and people over the age of 30, because the menisci weaken over time. The severity and location of the tear determine the course of treatment.

For a long time, menisci were thought to be functionless structures. Despite the fact that meniscal excision is well known to cause early degenerative arthritis, meniscectomy remains one of the most commonly performed procedures in orthopedic surgery.

The menisci play an important role in joint stability, joint kinematics, and load transfer. Recent advancements in meniscal repair techniques and biological augmentation have ushered in a new era of meniscal conservative surgery, resulting in more physiological knee function following surgery.