[Indications and technic of arthroscopic meniscus refixation]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Knee Biomechanics
• Arthroscopic Procedures

Background:

• Meniscectomy, the surgical removal of meniscus tissue, is a common procedure for knee injuries.
• Long-term outcomes and potential complications following different types of meniscectomy require further investigation.
• Arthroscopy is a key diagnostic and therapeutic tool in knee joint evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term consequences of meniscectomy on knee joint health.
• To assess the incidence of cartilage damage and joint instability after meniscectomy.
• To discuss the indications and techniques for arthroscopic peripheral meniscus fixation.

Main Methods:

• Arthroscopic examination of 47 knee joints in 792 instances.
• Analysis of knee joints between 5 and 20 years post-meniscectomy.
• Review of total, subtotal, and partial meniscectomy cases.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of cartilage damage observed in post-meniscectomy knees.
• Significant rates of knee joint instability associated with cartilage damage.
• Detailed discussion on the impact of meniscectomy extent on knee function.

Conclusions:

• Meniscectomy can lead to substantial long-term knee joint pathology, including cartilage damage and instability.
• Arthroscopic evaluation is crucial for assessing these long-term effects.
• Peripheral meniscus fixation via arthroscopy presents a potential treatment option for specific indications.