[Meniscal allograft transplantation]

Loss of meniscal cartilage leads to degenerative arthritis. Therefore, it is important to save the meniscus whenever possible. But not all damaged menisci can be treated by partial resection or repair. The concept of meniscal transplantation has been suggested and has been become more common in recent years. Meniscal transplantation should be considered for the young patient who has not developed advanced osteoarthritis. Ligament stability and normal knee alignment are further requirements for meniscal transplantation. At this time, meniscal allografts provide the best a priori conditions to prevent degenerative arthritis, but the use of allografts includes the risk of disease transmission. Open and arthroscopically assisted techniques have been described. Correct size matching and positioning as well as secure fixation of the meniscal horn are important for successful meniscal allograft transplantation. Even though controlled clinical studies have not yet provided clear evidence that meniscal transplantation prevents degenerative arthritis, pain relief and functional improvement have been found in follow-up studies.