Date of Award

1996

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Thomas Mohr

Keywords

Menisci, Tibial; Menisci, Tibial -- transplantation

Abstract

With the increased awareness that meniscectomy results in degenerative changes in the knee joint, research is now aimed at substituting the meniscus that had been previously removed. Surgical attempts at replacing the meniscus include the use of autografts, allografts, and artificial synthetic prosthesis.

This paper will review the available literature regarding each type of meniscal substitute. Surgical procedures, results, and considerations relating to the different substitutes will be examined.

While studies indicate that meniscal transplantation is technically feasible, the long-term results are unknown. More research is necessary to determine if meniscal substitutes can survive for a prolonged time and function to prevent further degenerative changes from occurring.

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