[Long-term results of meniscectomy].

The long-term results after total meniscectomy in 60 patients have been reviewed with an average follow-up period of 16.1 years (10 to 33 years) and 58.3% excellent and good results were demonstrated. Statistical analysis showed that the late results were related to the time of follow-up and not associated with the length of history before operation. Radiological degeneration of the knee was seen in 87.5% of the patients, while no relationship between the degeneration and the clinical results was found. It is indicated from this retrospective study that the menisci are of so great importance in biomechanics that total meniscectomy should be as far as possible avoided.