Complications of arthroscopic meniscal repair

Despite the numerous complications discussed, virtually all of these reported complications have either resolved spontaneously or had satisfactory outcomes after appropriate treatment. In the author's personal experience, saphenous neuropathy is by far the most common complication, and most patients describe it as being only a minor nuisance. The fact that complications do occur, however, reinforces the need to educate our patients as best as possible as to the significance of their injury, the potential for complications, and what to expect postoperatively. Meniscal repair is a beneficial treatment option. Complications, however, can and do occur, even with appropriate preventive steps. Several precautionary techniques can and should be included in the surgical technique to minimize the likelihood of complications. A way has yet to be devised, however, that eliminates the potential for complication. Patients should be educated as to the benefits as well as the potential risks of meniscal repair and should be prepared for various possibilities. This understanding should be documented with an appropriate informed consent prior to the proposed arthroscopy.