Meniscal Allograft Survivorship and Outcomes 20 Years After Implantation

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate meniscal allograft survivorship and outcomes 20 years after implantation.

Methods: Fifty-six meniscal allograft patients at a minimum 20 years following implantation comprised the study group. Forty-eight (85.7%) were able to be contacted regarding the function of their knee and if any additional surgeries were performed.

Results: Of the 48 patients, 21 required surgical treatment of the graft. Thirteen patients had isolated partial meniscectomy. Eight patients had knee arthroplasty with 1 having prior partial graft removal and one also had a high tibial osteotomy. The average time to arthroplasty was 12.7 years. The graft survivorship was 56.2%. The activity levels at follow-up varied widely, but in general did not deteriorate compared to those preoperatively. Only 1 patient stated they would not have undergone the procedure.

Conclusions: Meniscal allografts were able to provide subjective improvement at 20 years after surgery and while not as durable as the native meniscus, the overall graft survivorship was 56.2% after implantation.

Level of evidence: Retrospective case series, Level of evidence IV.