Meniscus Repair in Pediatric Athletes

Abstract

Meniscus tears are common in the pediatric population, typically occur after noncontact injuries, and can be diagnosed clinically with MRI confirmation. Surgery should be offered to patients with loss of range of motion, persistent symptoms, or displaced/complex tears. Given poor long-term outcomes reported after meniscectomy, repair should be attempted when possible as pediatric menisci are well vascularized and have better outcomes after repair than their adult counterparts. The location of the tear is an important determining factor when deciding on the type of repair to use. Pediatric meniscus repair techniques will be discussed noting differences between pediatric and adult procedures. Further studies are needed to explore the role of biologics and define postoperative protocols.

Keywords: Meniscectomy; Meniscus; Meniscus repair; Pediatric; Platelet-rich plasma; Rehabilitation.