Arthroscopic meniscus repair: inside-out technique vs. Biofix meniscus arrow

Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2004 Jan;12(1):43-9. doi: 10.1007/s00167-003-0446-8. Epub 2003 Sep 26.

Abstract

A retrospective study evaluated meniscal suturing using an inside-out technique vs. an all-inside technique (Biofix meniscus Arrow). Fifty-five knees in 55 patients who underwent closed meniscus repair between 1985 and 1995 were divided in two groups: 20 managed by an inside-out technique; and 35 managed by an all-inside technique. All patients underwent the same postoperative program of partial weight bearing, immediate motion, and rehabilitation of the knee. They were subjected to a clinical examination using Hospital for Special Surgery knee rating system. The mean follow-up was 13 years, 2 months (11 years, 11 months-15 years, 4 months) in the inside-out group and 6 years, 5 months (6 years-6 years 10 months) in the Biofix Arrow group. Sixteen patients also had an anterior cruciate ligament injury, of which six were repaired at the time of meniscus repair and one 6 years after meniscal repair. Thirty-nine patients had an excellent or good result (87% satisfactory outcome), three had a fair result, and three had a poor result. Meniscal suturing thus provides good clinical long-term results. The advantages of an all-inside technique include short operating time, superfluous capsular exposure, easier technique, and potentially lower risk of neurovascular lesions, especially when posterior horns are involved.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Absorbable Implants*
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries
  • Arthroscopy / methods*
  • Bone Screws*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Menisci, Tibial / surgery*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Polyglycolic Acid
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Suture Techniques*
  • Tibial Meniscus Injuries
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Polyglycolic Acid