Clinical outcomes after combined meniscal allograft transplantation and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

BACKGROUND

Concomitant meniscal transplantation performed at the time of ligament surgery may help to protect the anterior cruciate ligament graft.

PURPOSE

To determine the objective and subjective clinical outcomes after combined anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and meniscal allograft transplantation.

STUDY DESIGN

Uncontrolled retrospective review.

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction along with meniscal transplantation were retrospectively evaluated postoperatively at an average of 2.8 years (range, 1.8 to 5.6).

RESULTS

On the International Knee Documentation Committee overall subjective assessment, 86% had normal or nearly normal scores. The SF-36 physical and mental component summary scores were at higher levels than those of the patients' age- and sex-matched populations. Objectively, nearly 90% had normal or nearly normal Lachman and pivot shift test scores. The KT-1000 arthrometer testing at 30 pounds and maximum manual both demonstrated an average increased anterior translation of 1.5 mm compared with the contralateral knee. Joint space narrowing of the transplanted compartments was not significantly different from that of the contralateral knee.

CONCLUSIONS

Meniscal transplantation with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction can be a beneficial procedure in properly selected patients with either chronic anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency or failed anterior cruciate ligament surgery. Restoration of meniscal function may provide protection for the articular cartilage and improve joint stability.