Needle-assisted arthroscopic meniscal debridement

Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is a time-proven procedure for treating irreparable meniscal tears. Central third bucket-handle tears may not be amenable to repair. The goals of resection are a stable meniscus with a smooth contour and removal of the displaced flap from the joint. However, a surgeon may encounter a multitude of tear configurations. Different techniques are necessary to deal with these different tear configurations without injuring the chondral surfaces or soft tissues. We report on the surgical technique of using a spinal needle to cut 1 attachment of the flap while a grasper is used to control the free piece. This technique avoids the need to morselize the flap and prevents the piece from becoming lost in the joint. Furthermore, the procedure is quick and safe and does not require an additional portal.