Description of a surgical technique of medial meniscus root repair: a fixation technique with two simple stiches under an expected initial tension

Abstract

The medial meniscus (MM) posterior root has an important role in the maintenance of knee kinematics and articular cartilage. Although transtibial pullout repair of the MM posterior root tear (MMPRT) has become the gold standard, it is associated with several suturing difficulties. The present technical note describes a simple fixation technique using two simple stiches under an expected initial tension. After the degree of knee flexion (20°) and an expected tension (30 N) are checked, tibial fixation is performed using a bioabsorbable interference screw with a spring tensioner. After that, a suture knot is made just below the screw in case the sutures are pulled toward the joint direction. Furthermore, a cancellous screw is inserted at a position 1-cm distal from the tibial tunnel for augmentation and is tightened. MMPRT usually occurs in middle-aged females who often have decreased bone quality. However, there is no risk of tibial fracture with our new technique because the bone does not need to be hit. Adopting the advances of fixation with a spring tensioner and Biosure RG instead of Double Spike Plate, we can determine an expected tension easily and safely. The present fixation technique allows reproducibility for many operators to determine an initial tension and might be a good candidate for arthroscopic repair of the MMPRT. Further follow-up studies including second-look arthroscopy and scoring will be necessary to show the clinical benefits of this technique.

Keywords: Expected tension; Medial meniscus; Posterior root tear; Pullout repair; Simple fixation technique.