Meniscus Repair: From In Vitro Research to Patients

Abstract

Walking, running, jumping, or even just standing up are habits that we all have to perform in our everyday lives. However, defects in tissues composing the knee joint can drastically alter our ability to complete those simple actions. The knee joint is made up of the interaction between bones (femur, tibia, and patella), tendons, ligaments, and the two menisci (lateral and medial) in order to ensure smooth body movements. The meniscus corresponds to a crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous tissue, which is found in the knee joint between the femoral condyles and the tibial plateau. It plays a key role in the stability of the knee joint. However, it is quite vulnerable and therefore tears can occur within this tissue and compromise the proper function of the knee. Recently, numerous efforts have been made in order to find solutions to repair and regenerate the meniscus, supported by both bioengineering researchers and orthopedic surgeons. However, due to its poor healing capacity and its complex structure, the reconstruction of the meniscus remains particularly challenging. In this review, the current treatment options will be explained and the possibility of using organoids as building blocks for implant formation or as an in vitro three-dimensional model will be highlighted.