Evaluation of the second-generation meniscus arrow in the fixation of bucket-handle tears in the vascular area of the meniscus. A prospective study of 20 patients with a mean follow-up of 26 months.

Abstract

The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate whether the shorter degradation time of the second-generation Meniscus Arrow would be adequate to allow meniscal healing and whether equally good results could be achieved compared to the first generation implant. We also wanted to assess whether some of the implant related complications could be avoided with the altered absorption time. A total of 20 patients were included in this study. The mean follow-up was 26 months. The average Lysholm score at the final follow-up was 90. There were 13 second-look arthroscopies performed during the follow-up and in them two failures of the repaired menisci to heal were seen. Seven patients were found with some degree of chondral irritation of the femoral condyle corresponding to the repair site. The second generation Meniscus Arrow seems to give results comparable to the first generation Meniscus Arrow. The potential complications caused by the implant reported in the earlier literature using the first generation arrow are possible also using this implant. In seven of the 13 second-look arthroscopies some degree of chondral irritation corresponding to the repair site was seen. The clinical relevance of these lesions remains to be seen.