Arthroscopically assisted technique for meniscal reconstruction using fresh frozen allograft

Meniscal transplantation has been developed as a rationale of treatment for knees that have previously undergone a complete meniscectomy. In reconstructing the human meniscus, it is believed that the onset of the progressive degenerative changes that occur in the postmeniscectomy knee may be delayed. This will only occur if the reconstructed meniscus is able to perform all of its functions: increase of contact area, decrease of contact stress, shock absorption, joint lubrication, nutrition of chondrocytes, and stabilization. An arthroscopically assisted technique for meniscal reconstruction using fresh frozen meniscal allograft with attached bone plugs is described. This technique, which avoids disruption of the extensor mechanism or collateral ligaments, emphasizes arthroscopic visualization of specific anatomic landmarks for each meniscal root insertion site, with creation of osseous tunnels at these corresponding sites to allow for anatomic placement of the meniscal implant. Although early clinical results seem promising, this procedure should be limited to a select group of individuals who meet specific inclusion criteria in study groups and investigational protocols until long-term results are determined.