title: Arthroscopic meniscus repair: inside-out technique vs. Biofix meniscus arrow.
abstract: A retrospective study evaluated meniscal suturing using an inside-out technique vs. an all-inside technique (Biofix meniscus Arrow). Fifty-five knees in 55 patients who underwent closed meniscus repair between 1985 and 1995 were divided in two groups: 20 managed by an inside-out technique; and 35 managed by an all-inside technique. All patients underwent the same postoperative program of partial weight bearing, immediate motion, and rehabilitation of the knee. They were subjected to a clinical examination using Hospital for Special Surgery knee rating system. The mean follow-up was 13 years, 2 months (11 years, 11 months-15 years, 4 months) in the inside-out group and 6 years, 5 months (6 years-6 years 10 months) in the Biofix Arrow group. Sixteen patients also had an anterior cruciate ligament injury, of which six were repaired at the time of meniscus repair and one 6 years after meniscal repair. Thirty-nine patients had an excellent or good result (87% satisfactory outcome), three had a fair result, and three had a poor result. Meniscal suturing thus provides good clinical long-term results. The advantages of an all-inside technique include short operating time, superfluous capsular exposure, easier technique, and potentially lower risk of neurovascular lesions, especially when posterior horns are involved.
mesh_terms: D020341:Absorbable Implants; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000601:surgery; D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods*; D001863:Bone Screws; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008592:Menisci, Tibial / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011100:Polyglycolic Acid; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013536:Suture Techniques; D000070600:Tibial Meniscus Injuries; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D011100:Polyglycolic Acid