Meniscus Transplantation

Overview

Journal Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med

Date 2015 Oct 4

PMID 26431702

Citations 15

Authors

Rachel M Frank

Brian J Cole

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Understanding the structure and function of the meniscus is critical to understanding its role in overall knee joint function. Injury to, or removal of, meniscal tissue may be associated with articular cartilage wear, knee instability, and, ultimately, the progression of osteoarthritis. While every effort is made for preserving and/or repairing damaged meniscal tissue, in some cases, the meniscus is not amenable to repair after injury. For appropriately indicated patients with symptomatic meniscal deficiency, meniscus allograft transplantation is an excellent surgical solution aimed at reducing pain and improving function. Indications for meniscus allograft transplantation are limited, and concomitant procedures such as osteotomy for malalignment, ligamentous, and/or articular cartilage restoration may be necessary in order to ensure an optimal result following meniscus allograft transplantation. Surgical techniques for meniscus allograft transplantation are variable and include soft-tissue fixation versus bone plug fixation versus bone bridge fixation. Outcomes following meniscus allograft transplantation are generally good to excellent, though reoperation rates are relatively high. The purpose of this article is to provide a concise review of recently published data on meniscus allograft transplantation, with a focus on recent outcomes studies.

Citing Articles

Low Rates of 30-Day Postoperative Complications After Meniscal Allograft Transplantation: A Retrospective Study Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database.

Whitaker S, ONeill C, Satalich J, Protzuk O, Edge C, Hurley E Arthrosc Sports Med Rehabil. 2025; 7(1):101015.

PMID: 40041836 PMC: 11873519. DOI: 10.1016/j.asmr.2024.101015.

A narrative review of lateral meniscus transplantation with the bridge in slot: technique and outcomes.

Nathan L, Kester B, Condron N, Evuarherhe Jr A, Cole B Ann Jt. 2024; 7:17.

PMID: 38529142 PMC: 10929392. DOI: 10.21037/aoj-20-109.

Using Single Peroneal Longus Tendon Graft for Segmental Meniscus Transplantation and Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Combined Anterolateral Reconstruction.

Yang L, Chiu C, Hsu K, Chuang C, Chen A, Chan Y Medicina (Kaunas). 2023; 59(8).

PMID: 37629787 PMC: 10456414. DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081497.

Meniscal Allograft Transplantation: Does Surgical Technique Influence Clinical Outcomes?.

Worhacz K, Carter T Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2023; 16(5):163-172.

PMID: 37014608 PMC: 10188795. DOI: 10.1007/s12178-023-09825-3.

A review of strategies for development of tissue engineered meniscal implants.

Klarmann G, Gaston J, Ho V Biomater Biosyst. 2023; 4:100026.

PMID: 36824574 PMC: 9934480. DOI: 10.1016/j.bbiosy.2021.100026.

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