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Meniscal transplantation is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged meniscus of the knee with healthy cartilage.
The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage ring that acts as a cushion between the shinbone and the thighbone. Each of your knees has two menisci – one on the inside (medial aspect) and the other on the outside (lateral aspect)of your knee. Apart from the cushioning effect, the menisci also provide stability to the knee.
A meniscal tear is a common knee injury that usually occurs secondary to trauma and is common in athletes. A meniscal tear may also occur in the elderly due to degenerative changes in the knee. A damaged meniscus predisposes you to persistent pain, swelling, and arthritis.
Treatment of a meniscal tear depends on its type, severity, and location of the tear. Non-surgical options for the treatment of meniscal tears may include ice application, rest, elastic bandage, elevation, and physical therapy. However, a badly damaged meniscus may have to be removed. Knee replacement may be an option to consider in older individuals. However, meniscal transplantation can be an alternative option in younger patients.
The eligibility criteria for meniscal transplantation include:
A diagnosis of meniscal tear as a cause of knee pain comprises of a medical history along with the presenting symptoms followed by a physical examination of the knee. Your doctor may also order a few imaging studies such as an X-ray and MRI scan of the knee to rule out other possible diagnoses. X-rays help to identify degenerative changes such as osteoarthritis which can cause knee pain. MRIs help to visualize the menisci and assess the location and severity of the injury.
Following the surgery, you will be advised to wear a knee brace to support and protect the knee for the first 1 to 6 weeks. You will be required to use crutches after the surgery, to avoid any pressure or stress over the operated knee. You can start moving soon after the surgery to prevent knee stiffness. Pain relieving medications will be prescribed to control pain. A physical therapy program will help to restore the range of motion and strength of your knee. You may be able to resume work after a few weeks or a few months, depending on the nature of your work. It may take 6 to 12 months for you to return to playing sports.
Possible complications associated with meniscus transplantation include:
