Editorial Commentary: Caveat Medicus-Beware of Meniscal Repair

Perform meniscal repair with care and beware! Because of the well-known adverse consequences of meniscectomy, especially in the lateral compartment, meniscal repair should be considered for every meniscal tear even if it requires pushing the envelope. Nevertheless, the surgeon must be keenly aware of neuromuscular risks associated with this technique. For the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus, extreme caution must be exercised, particularly in younger and presumably smaller female patients. When a surgeon is performing all-inside repair of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus, a medial portal 1 cm medial to the patellar tendon is recommended for placement of sutures. In addition, he or she should limit the depth of penetration of all-inside needles and exercise extreme vigilance during and after surgery (checking for potential neurovascular injury in the recovery room).