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Editorial
. 2020 Feb;36(2):327-328.
doi: 10.1016/j.arthro.2019.11.128. Epub 2019 Dec 7.

Nonoperative Management of Degenerative Meniscus Tears Is Worth a Try

James H Lubowitz, Jefferson C Brand, Michael J Rossi
Editorial

Nonoperative Management of Degenerative Meniscus Tears Is Worth a Try

James H Lubowitz et al. Arthroscopy. 2020 Feb.

Abstract

Clinical trials comparing arthroscopy and physical therapy for degenerative meniscal tears show no significant difference. Methodologically, these trials have flaws. Intention-to-treat analysis allows therapy patients to crossover to surgery, and outcomes of these surgically treated patients are paradoxically reported in the therapy group. In contrast, it is impossible for surgery patients to crossover. Nevertheless, initial nonoperative management of degenerative meniscal tears is worth a try.

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  • Surgery versus physical therapy for a meniscal tear and osteoarthritis.
    Katz JN, Brophy RH, Chaisson CE, de Chaves L, Cole BJ, Dahm DL, Donnell-Fink LA, Guermazi A, Haas AK, Jones MH, Levy BA, Mandl LA, Martin SD, Marx RG, Miniaci A, Matava MJ, Palmisano J, Reinke EK, Richardson BE, Rome BN, Safran-Norton CE, Skoniecki DJ, Solomon DH, Smith MV, Spindler KP, Stuart MJ, Wright J, Wright RW, Losina E. Katz JN, et al. N Engl J Med. 2013 May 2;368(18):1675-84. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1301408. Epub 2013 Mar 18. N Engl J Med. 2013. PMID: 23506518 Free PMC article. Clinical Trial.

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