Meniscal allograft transplantation

Meniscal allograft transplantation remains an investigational procedure. Loss of native meniscal function has been consistently shown to result in the development and progression of degenerative joint disease. Allograft reconstruction is a technically feasible and reproducible procedure in both animals and humans with demonstrated incorporation of the transplanted graft with host tissue. However, the ultimate success or failure of the meniscal reconstruction cannot be judged solely on demonstration of allograft incorporation. Success must be measured by the prevention or deceleration of the progression of degenerative changes in the knee that has undergone meniscectomy or by the additional stability the reconstruction provides to the knee. To date the long-term viability and function of the meniscal allograft transplant remains unknown.