Arthroscopic techniques and instruments for meniscal allograft transplantation using the bone bridge in trough method

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Meniscal allograft transplantation is crucial for restoring knee function after meniscus loss.
• Accurate fixation of the bone bridge and tibial plateau is essential for successful graft integration and stability.
• Current arthroscopic techniques may face challenges in precision and standardization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and refine arthroscopic techniques for constructing the bone bridge and tibial plateau in meniscal allograft transplantation.
• To simplify and enhance the intraoperative accuracy of bone bridge fixation.
• To improve the standardization and safety of meniscal graft transplantation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a traction line system to guide and fix the meniscal allograft's anterior and posterior horns to the bone bridge.
• Employed an aiming device and guide plate on the tibial plateau for precise bone trough creation (9-mm).
• Constructed the bone trough using a guide needle, hollow drill, piston rod, and arch-shaped bone knife.
• Sutured the meniscus periphery to the joint capsule and utilized four-point fixation on the tibial plateau.

Main Results:

• The described techniques standardized meniscal graft transplantation, reducing errors from mismatched bone bridge and trough sizes.
• Four-point tibial plateau fixation prevented meniscal reversal and enhanced allograft stability, minimizing extrusion risk.
• Arthroscopic construction of the bone bridge and tibial plateau was achieved with high efficacy and excellent fixation.

Conclusions:

• Standardized arthroscopic techniques and instruments improve convenience, safety, and accuracy in meniscal allograft transplantation.
• Four-point tibial plateau fixation enhances meniscal allograft stability, reduces extrusion risk, and supports functional recovery.
• Precise bone bridge and tibial plateau construction under arthroscopy is key to successful meniscal allograft transplantation outcomes.