Meniscus allograft transplantation using posterior peripheral suture technique: a preliminary follow-up study

The aim of this study was to describe the indication, planning, technique, rehabilitation, and clinical results after cryopreserved allograft meniscus transplantation. Forty consecutive patients, 33 men and 7 women (mean, 37.3 years of age), were evaluated at 1-year follow-up post surgery. Symptoms, patient satisfaction, ROM (range of motion), surgical time, blood loss, and surgical history were evaluated. Thirty-eight (95%) patients had previous total or partial meniscectomy (mean, 11.4 years ago). Preoperatively, chief complaints were knee joint line pain and swelling. Mean surgical time and blood loss were 123 min and 87 g, respectively. At 12 months postsurgery, 5% and 10%, respectively, complained of pain and swelling; ROM was 0 degrees -132 degrees. Thirty-eight (95%) patients were satisfied. According to the results, meniscus transplantation can lead to significant pain relief and satisfaction in young symptomatic meniscectomized patients. However, long-term results must be obtained to prove the effectiveness of this technique in prevention of degenerative joint changes.