Meniscal repair

Abstract

Historically, treatment of meniscus tears consisted of complete meniscectomy. Over the past few decades, however, the long-term morbidities of meniscal removal, namely the early development of knee osteoarthritis, have become apparent. Thus, management of meniscal tears has trended toward meniscal preservation. Recent technological advances have made repairs of the meniscus easier and stronger. In addition, adjunctive therapies used to enhance the healing process have advanced greatly in the past few years. Today, with increased understanding of the impact of meniscal loss and the principles of meniscal repair and healing, meniscal preservation is viewed as an increasingly realistic and important goal in the management of meniscus tears.