Meniscus substitution using a collagen meniscal scaffold is considered for active patients who have previously had parts of their meniscus removed, and develop pain in the area without having advanced degenerative changes to the articular (gliding surface) cartilage.
The Collagen Meniscus Implant (CMI) is a resorbable and biocompatible Type I collagen matrix that was developed to restore the segmental loss of meniscal tissue in the knee. It consists of a porous cross-linked matrix scaffold that allows for the ingrowth of the body’s own cells. It is the only meniscal implant composed of purely biological materials and is available in the United States for use in the restoration of segmental loss of the medial meniscus. The CMI can be utilized in either an acute or chronic situation. The procedure can be done minimally invasively and as an outpatient. Studies have demonstrated improved knee function, activity levels, and pain values from the pre- to postoperative periods. In addition, functional improvements have been maintained for over 10 years. The reoperation rate has been demonstrated to be 10% to 20%, which is comparable to the reoperation rate after meniscal repair.
