Introduction
Meniscus transplantation has now become established as a routine operative procedure after (sub)total loss of the meniscus in young patients to achieve pain reduction and improved function. Due to the increased mechanical load and cartilage abrasion, lateral meniscus transplantation in particular plays an important chondroprotective role.
Methods
A variety of operative techniques for anchoring the meniscal root can be used in meniscus transplantation. Combination techniques are frequently employed.
Results
Despite many publications over the last 30 years, the evidence level is still low. Most publications are retrospective level IV studies (also levels II and III). Reports on long-term results are (still) rare due to the low case numbers; however, the majority of clinical results show a positive trend with significant improvement of subjective scores, such as Lysholm, KOOS, Womac and IKDC scores. Return to competitive sport is reported as being 75–92% after 6–12 months but mostly not to the same level as before the injury. Some studies described a lower rate of arthrosis after meniscus transplantation in comparison to control groups. The failure rate is reported to be between 3.6% and 29% after approximately 10 years.
Conclusion
Due to the low evidence level of currently available studies, randomized controlled prospective studies with long-term results are necessary to confirm the positive results.