Biological enhancement of meniscus repair and replacement

Sports Med Arthrosc Rev. 2012 Jun;20(2):115-20. doi: 10.1097/JSA.0b013e31824483e9.

Abstract

When a meniscus injury occurs, it is generally accepted that preserving the meniscus is important for life-long joint preservation. Traditional suture repair of the meniscus has good results; however, the healing potential of meniscus tissue remains as a biological challenge because it is not a completely vascularized structure. For this reason, investigators have continued to search for adjuncts to improve clinical results. Mechanical adjuncts, local factor enhancement, scaffolds, gene therapy, and cell therapy have all been examined as options for improvement of biology and structure. This study reviews the basic science and clinical application of these modalities and provides an assessment of techniques on the horizon.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / therapeutic use
  • Menisci, Tibial / blood supply
  • Menisci, Tibial / surgery*
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Organ Sparing Treatments
  • Tibial Meniscus Injuries*
  • Tissue Scaffolds*

Substances

  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins