ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of arthroscopic all-inside meniscal repair at an average 5-year follow-up.

Thirty-two patients (29 males 3 females; 19 right knees, 13 left knees), who underwent arthroscopic all-inside meniscal repair, were included in the study. Clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging were the main diagnostic tools. The mean age of the patients was 28 years (23-41 years). ACL reconstruction was performed in the same session in 12 patients with meniscal injury associated with ACL tear. Preoperative and postoperative functional knee scores of the patients were assessed by modified Marshall functional knee scores in their last follow-up.

The mean follow-up period was 58 months (range 49-81). Marshall knee scores in the last follow-up were found to be excellent in 23 patients, good - in 8 patients, and moderate in 1 patient. ACL reconstruction was performed in the same session in 12 patients with meniscal injury associated with ACL tear. A statistically significant functional improvement was detected in patients with meniscal repair after 5 years.

This study showed that all-inside meniscal repair technique is an easy and reliable method for the treatment of meniscus tears.