Chronic knee pain can be debilitating and greatly impact one’s quality of life. It can limit mobility, interfere with daily activities, and cause emotional distress.

The meniscus, a C-shaped piece of fibrous cartilage in the knee joint, acts as a shock absorber and provides stability. When it is damaged or torn, it can lead to chronic pain and limit knee function. Meniscus transplantation is a surgical procedure that has been shown to provide a lasting cure for chronic knee pain caused by meniscus damage or loss.

This article will explore the procedure, its benefits, and risks.

What is Meniscus Transplantation?

Meniscus transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or missing meniscus with a donor meniscus. The donor meniscus is obtained from a cadaver that has been screened and tested for compatibility.

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting under general anesthesia.

Who is a Candidate for Meniscus Transplantation?

Meniscus transplantation is typically recommended for patients who have experienced significant knee pain and dysfunction due to the loss or damage of a meniscus. Candidates for the procedure must have a stable knee joint and minimal arthritis.

Patients who are not good candidates include those with active infections, severe obesity, or significant ligament instability.

Benefits of Meniscus Transplantation

Meniscus transplantation can provide several benefits, including:.

Relief from chronic knee pain
Improved knee function and mobility
Delay or avoidance of knee replacement surgery
Lower risk of knee arthritis

Risks of Meniscus Transplantation

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with meniscus transplantation. These risks include:.

Infection
Blood clots
Rejection of the donor meniscus
Failure of the transplant
Pain and swelling

It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of meniscus transplantation with your healthcare provider before making a decision.

Recovery from Meniscus Transplantation

The recovery period from meniscus transplantation can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Patients can usually expect to be on crutches for the first 6-8 weeks and undergo physical therapy for several months.

It is important to follow the rehabilitation plan provided by your healthcare provider to ensure proper healing and optimal outcomes.

Success Rate of Meniscus Transplantation

Studies have shown that meniscus transplantation has a success rate of approximately 70-80%. Factors that can influence the success of the procedure include the patient’s age, activity level, and degree of arthritis.

Conclusion

Meniscus transplantation is a surgical procedure that can provide a lasting cure for chronic knee pain caused by meniscus damage or loss. The procedure is typically recommended for patients who have a stable knee joint and minimal arthritis.

It can provide several benefits, including relief from chronic knee pain, improved knee function and mobility, delay or avoidance of knee replacement surgery, and lower risk of knee arthritis. However, as with any surgery, there are risks associated with the procedure.

It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of meniscus transplantation with your healthcare provider in order to make an informed decision about the best course of treatment for your individual needs.