Collagen meniscus implantation in athletically active patients

Abstract

In cases where an injured meniscus cannot be repaired, innovative approaches such as the use of a resorbable collagen-based implant can provide an important surgical treatment option. The Menaflex™ implant, which is resorbed as the new meniscal tissue is formed, was designed for patients with either irreparable meniscal damage, or that have previously undergone partial meniscectomy following knee injury. Collagen meniscus implant use is superior to partial meniscectomy in preventing articular cartilage degeneration, helping patients return to both activities of daily living and sports without developing knee osteoarthrosis. Long-term studies beyond 6–8 years however are lacking, thereby the true efficacy of collagen meniscus implant use to protect against knee osteoarthritis remains unknown. Therefore, we continue to learn regarding patient selection for collagen meniscus implant use, how much should be used, to what level of sports they can safely return to, and when? Evidence regarding collagen meniscus implant use in the very young, the elderly, and women in general is quite limited. Three cases of athletically active patients who received a collagen meniscus implant are described.