Editorial Commentary: The Free-Floating Disc-Shaped Polycarbonate-Urethane Meniscal Implant Has High Reoperation Rates at 24 Months of Follow-up.

Abstract

A free-floating disc shaped polycarbonate-urethane ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber-reinforced medial compartment implant is designed for symptomatic postmedial meniscectomy syndrome. Because it is not sutured into place, an intact 2-mm meniscus rim with intact anterior and posterior meniscal horns is required. In a recent 24-month follow-up study, only 64% of the original implants were retained. The differences between the 12-month data and the 24-month data are striking and underscore the importance of adequate follow-up, especially for new devices. Although approximately 95% of the patients retained this synthetic medial joint implant at 12 months, only 64% did so at 24 months of follow-up. Positive prognostic factors include increasing patient age (especially 56 years and older) and a greater body mass index (at least 27.5). Those retaining the initial implant or having revision implant replacement reported improved pain and function. These data cast doubt on the effectiveness of the current design and technique for this implant.