Meniscal allograft transplantation--part II: alternative treatments, effects on articular cartilage, and future directions.

Abstract

Abstract Meniscal allograft transplantation in clinical practice has progressed to a point where short-term relief of pain may be expected. However, it remains to be established whether a transplanted meniscus can prevent degenerative changes in the knee joint in the long term. In part II of this Current Concepts review, meniscus regeneration and alternative treatments to meniscal allograft transplantation are evaluated as well as the effect of meniscal allograft transplantation on articular cartilage. Remaining questions and future directions are considered in a final discussion. It can be concluded that considerably more data and evaluations of results are needed to determine whether meniscal allograft transplantation in humans will be successful in protecting and preserving articular cartilage after meniscectomy in the long term.