Meniscal debridement: current concepts

The meniscus is a commonly injured structure in the knee. When intact, it serves multiple biomechanical functions that protect the underlying articular cartilage. When injured, it can cause pain and mechanical symptoms that restrict activity. Although meniscal tears can be effectively treated with arthroscopic debridement, there is concern that any amount of meniscectomy, no matter how small, is a risk factor for the development of long-term osteoarthritis. This article reviews current concepts in arthroscopic meniscal debridement, including clinical outcome studies, to understand which factors affect outcome after this commonly performed procedure.