Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy with Suture Repair for Discoid Lateral Meniscus in Patients under 40 Years of Age

Abstract

Background: Damage to a discoid meniscus often indicates a complex tear, the treatment for which has not yet been resolved. This study aimed to assess the clinical efficacy of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with suture repair for discoid lateral meniscus in patients under 40 years of age. Methods: A total number of 10 patients aged < 40 years who underwent partial meniscectomy with meniscal repair for lateral discoid meniscal tears were included in the study. Clinical assessment was evaluated pre-and post-surgery, and magnetic resonance imaging was performed at a mean of 9.5 months after surgery. Results: The Lysholm score improved from 43 ± 19.3 to 87.2 ± 7.8 (range: 94 − 100) at the last follow-up after surgery. The International Knee Documentation Committee score improved from 21.8 ±10.4 to 87.7 ± 4.8 at the last follow-up time after surgery. MRI revealed partial healing of the meniscus in six patients and residual damage of the meniscus in four patients. Extrusion was noted in three patients shown in coronal plane images. Conclusion: Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with suture repair for discoid lateral meniscus in 10 patients under 40 years of age led to satisfactory clinical outcomes after a mean period of 11.2 months. However, in three cases, although the symptoms have improved, the remaining meniscus had worn off.