Update on meniscal repair

Abstract

The chondroprotective effect of meniscal preservation has been clearly shown. The potential of early arthritis, pain and decreased function after meniscectomy has led to expanded repair indications. Despite the advantages of all-inside meniscal repair, many biomechanical studies still support inside-out repair as the strongest repair construct. Although biological augmentation has been shown to improve healing rates in animal models, there is still no consensus on the optimal delivery vector and amount and type of growth factor needed. Clinical outcomes and postoperative MRI do not seem to be accurate in determining healing rates compared with second-look arthroscopy. © 2011 Wolters Kluwer Health.