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Aseptic synovitis after meniscal repair using the biodegradable meniscus arrow
1Department of Orthopaedics, Chonnam National University Hospital, Kwangju, Korea. eksong@chonnam.ac.kr
Summary
A biodegradable meniscus arrow used in knee surgery caused aseptic synovitis in a young man. Prompt treatment with arthroscopic synovectomy resolved the inflammation and restored knee function.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Meniscal repair is a common orthopedic procedure.
- Biodegradable implants are increasingly used in orthopedic surgery.
- Aseptic synovitis is joint inflammation not caused by infection.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old man developed left knee synovitis 13 months post-meniscal repair.
- The repair utilized a biodegradable Meniscus Arrow.
- Histology showed chronic synovitis and birefringent materials.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemistry revealed lysozyme, alpha-1-antitrypsin, and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin.
- These findings suggest a foreign body reaction to the implant.
- This is the first reported case of aseptic synovitis linked to this specific biodegradable device.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential complication of biodegradable meniscal repair devices.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects and inflammatory potential of such implants.
- Clinicians should consider implant-related reactions in cases of delayed joint inflammation after meniscal repair.