Our Summary

This research paper looks at the effectiveness and cost of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) - a surgery where a donor’s knee cartilage is transplanted into a patient who has injured their own knee cartilage. The researchers found that while there’s a good deal of evidence showing patients feel better after the surgery, there’s only one small study showing this surgery is better than non-surgical treatments. Also, it’s not yet clear whether this surgery prevents further damage to the knee. The researchers couldn’t determine if the surgery is cost-effective because there’s not enough data comparing it to non-surgical treatments. However, they believe it could be cost-effective because it could help patients return to their previous activities, potentially prevent or delay arthritis, and could avoid or delay the need for knee replacements. But they caution that more evidence is needed to prove these points.

FAQs

  1. What is meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT)?
  2. Is meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) more effective than non-surgical treatments?
  3. Is meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) cost-effective as compared to non-surgical treatments?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about meniscectomy is to follow the post-operative rehabilitation plan carefully. This may include physical therapy exercises, avoiding certain activities, and taking prescribed medications. By following the rehabilitation plan, the patient can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for meniscectomy are those who have torn or damaged meniscus tissue in their knee. This surgery is often recommended for patients who have persistent knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion despite trying non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy or medication. Patients with meniscus tears that are causing mechanical symptoms such as locking or catching in the knee joint may also be recommended for meniscectomy. Additionally, patients who have degenerative meniscus tears or have not responded well to conservative treatments may be candidates for this surgery. It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their healthcare provider to determine if meniscectomy is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before meniscectomy:

  1. Patient experiences knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected knee.
  2. Patient undergoes physical examination, imaging tests (such as MRI), and possibly arthroscopy to diagnose the meniscal tear.
  3. Non-surgical treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and pain medications may be recommended to relieve symptoms and improve knee function.
  4. If symptoms persist and conservative treatments are not effective, the patient may be recommended for meniscectomy surgery.

After meniscectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the meniscectomy surgery, where a portion of the damaged meniscus is removed.
  2. Recovery period involves physical therapy to strengthen the knee and improve range of motion.
  3. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee post-surgery.
  4. Over time, most patients experience improved knee function and reduced symptoms.
  5. Long-term outcomes may vary depending on the extent of the meniscal damage and the patient’s adherence to rehabilitation exercises.
  6. Some patients may develop knee osteoarthritis in the future due to the loss of meniscal tissue.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with meniscectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period following meniscectomy surgery?
  3. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  4. What are the long-term effects of meniscectomy surgery on my knee joint?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for meniscectomy surgery?
  6. How soon after the surgery can I return to my normal physical activities, such as sports or exercise?
  7. Will I need any additional treatments or surgeries in the future if I undergo meniscectomy surgery?
  8. What is the success rate of meniscectomy surgery in relieving pain and improving knee function?
  9. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after undergoing meniscectomy surgery?
  10. Are there any potential benefits of meniscal allograft transplantation compared to traditional meniscectomy surgery in my case?

Reference

Authors: Waugh N, Mistry H, Metcalfe A, Loveman E, Colquitt J, Royle P, Smith NA, Spalding T. Journal: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2019 Jun;27(6):1825-1839. doi: 10.1007/s00167-019-05504-4. Epub 2019 Apr 13. PMID: 30982109