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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureTechnical details Anesthetic Length of allograft meniscus replacement surgery Recovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Meniscus Allograft Replacement Surgery: A minimally invasive method to restore previously removed torn knee cartilage with cadaver tissue

Edited By: John R. Green III, M.D.
Last updated Thursday, January 05, 2006

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About the procedure

What are the technical details of allograft meniscus replacement surgery for meniscus tear? What is actually done?

After the anesthetic is administered and knee examined, a tourniquet is placed on the upper thigh and the thigh is secured to the table in a padded limb holder. The knee and lower leg are cleansed and draped and a diagnostic arthroscopy is performed. A diagnostic arthroscopy is a thorough examination of the inside of the joint with a camera hooked up to viewing screens. The instruments are approximately 5mm in diameter and are inserted through three or four 1cm incisions around the knee. One incision is for sterile saline inflow, used to improve visualization within the joint. A systematic inspection of the knee documents any other problems, which can also be addressed. An inspection of the gliding surfaces in the region of the previously removed meniscus is important to make sure arthritic changes have not yet become advanced enough to preclude the allograft meniscus replacement. The remainder of the meniscus is removed with arthroscopic instruments. A two to three inch vertical incision is made, and a trough cut into the tibia (shin bone) where the native meniscus attached. A cadaver (allograft) meniscus, of the appropriate size from radiographic measurements, is prepared with a similarly sized bone bridge connecting the front and back meniscus attachments to bone. The new meniscus is press fit into the bone trough and is secured into the trough as necessary with suture or absorbable pins. The periphery of the meniscus is then repaired to the adjacent joint capsule with sutures similar to a meniscus repair.

What is the typical anesthetic used for allograft meniscus replacement surgery for meniscus tear?

Allograft meniscus replacement can be safely performed under general or spinal anesthetic. In addition, local anesthetic is injected into the knee and the incisions. The patient is encouraged to discuss preferences with the anesthesiologist prior to surgery.

How long does allograft meniscus replacement surgery for meniscus tear usually take?

Allograft meniscus replacement generally takes between an hour and a half and two hours. Depending on how much other surgery is necessary to take care of other problems in the knee, the time may be a bit more or less.

Surgery for Meniscus Tear at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-543-1552 to make an appointment.

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