Your knee endures immense stress, carrying up to four times your body weight with every step you take. The meniscus, a vital cartilage in the knee, helps by acting as a shock absorber and stabilizer of the joint. When the meniscus is damaged, chronic knee pain can follow. Meniscus transplantation offers a promising solution for select candidates. Find out if this innovative procedure might be the right choice for you.
The Function of the Meniscus
The meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage in the knee joint, acts as a cushion between the femur and tibia, distributing weight and reducing stress on the joint. When this cartilage is severely damaged or removed, it can lead to pain, swelling, and even arthritis over time.
When Meniscus Transplantation is Recommended
When evaluating the need for meniscus transplantation, the following factors are considered:
- Amount of Blood Supply to the Site of Injury: The meniscus has two zones—the outer "red zone" with good blood supply and the inner "white zone" with poor or no blood supply. Tears in the white zone typically cannot heal, even after repair. In such instances, transplantation may be the best option.
- Type of Tear: Certain tear patterns, such as complex or degenerative tears, cannot be effectively sutured because the tissue is either too damaged or unlikely to heal.
- Extent of Damage: In cases of severe damage or loss of the meniscus, there may not be enough healthy tissue remaining to perform a successful repair.
- Patient Factors: Age, activity level, and overall knee health can impact the viability of repair. Older or less active patients may not benefit as much from repair as from other treatments such as knee replacement.
Who Is a Candidate for Meniscus Transplantation?
This procedure is not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:
- Younger Patients: Meniscus transplantation is most effective for individuals under 50 who have active lifestyles.
- Severe Meniscus Loss: Those who have had a previous meniscectomy or irreparable meniscus damage.
- Stable Knee Joint: Candidates must have no significant arthritis or major structural damage to the knee.
- Persistent Pain: Chronic knee pain that has not improved with physical therapy, injections, or other conservative treatments.
If you have sustained a meniscus injury that has not responded to conservative treatments, meniscus transplantation may help restore function and alleviate pain. Book an appointment with Dr. Mithoefer to discuss your options.
AUTHOR: Dr. Kai Mithoefer is board-certified in both Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic sports medicine specialist. Dr. Mithoefer is an internationally recognized specialist for complex shoulder and knee injuries with over 15 years of experience with the treatment of sports-related injuries. Dr. Mithoefer practices at Boston Bone and Joint Institute and has published more than 100 scientific articles and book chapters and is a frequent speaker at national and international orthopedic meetings.
