Basic science

Abstract

Basic science of meniscal allograft transplantation is mainly based on animal and biomechanical experiments. Although healing of meniscal allografts has been demonstrated in several animal experiment studies, concerns regarding graft hypocellularity, material properties, and their long-term functional survival still remain. Experimental studies have shown that the cartilage status of the knee cannot be restored to normal by meniscal allograft transplantation. However, several authors have demonstrated a chondroprotective effect compared to meniscectomized knees. Biomechanical investigations have confirmed that precise size matching and positioning as well as firm fixation at the anterior and posterior horn are mandatory for the meniscal transplant to have an adequate loadbearing function. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2010.