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Published on: May 21, 2013
Arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation without bone plugs
Eduard Alentorn-Geli1, Roberto Seijas Vázquez, Montserrat García Balletbó
1Artroscopia G.C., Hospital Quirón, plaza Alfonso Comín 5-7, 08023, Barcelona, Spain.
Summary
Arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation without bone plugs effectively improves knee function and reduces pain after meniscectomy, regardless of existing cartilage damage. This procedure offers a viable alternative to traditional meniscectomy, showing significant patient outcome improvements.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Meniscectomy, while relieving pain, is linked to early knee osteoarthritis.
- Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) is an alternative to meniscectomy.
- Bone-plug-less arthroscopic MAT technique offers a less invasive approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an arthroscopic meniscal allograft transplantation technique without bone plugs.
- To report the preliminary outcomes of this specific MAT procedure.
- To evaluate functional and pain improvements post-transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 35 patients (37 menisci) undergoing arthroscopic MAT without bone plugs (2001-2006).
- Exclusion criteria included prior/subsequent knee surgeries.
- Functional scores (Lysholm, IKDC) and pain (VAS) were assessed pre- and post-operatively (mean 38.6 months).
- Chondral lesions were evaluated intra-operatively and via imaging.
Main Results:
- Low graft failure rate (3.4%) due to accidents.
- Significant improvements in Lysholm, IKDC, and VAS pain scores (P < 0.0001).
- Improvements were independent of the degree of chondral lesions.
Conclusions:
- Arthroscopic MAT without bone plugs enhances knee function and alleviates symptoms after total meniscectomy.
- The technique demonstrates efficacy irrespective of pre-existing chondral damage.
- This approach provides a promising alternative for patients with meniscal defects.
