Description
In this presentation, Andrew Price discusses the importance and recent developments in meniscal repair surgery. He expresses a desire for in-person gatherings while emphasizing the need for a consensus on management strategies for meniscal tears. Price highlights the scrutiny meniscal surgery has faced, referencing the Bask Meniscus Working Group's efforts to establish evidence-based guidelines for treating meniscal injuries.
He points out the critical role of the meniscus in knee function and stability, noting advances in surgical techniques that enable effective meniscal repair. Despite knowing that many meniscal tears might be repairable, he mentions that these techniques are underutilized. The speaker acknowledges the gap in high-level evidence supporting the efficacy of meniscal repair, but asserts that successful outcome rates are encouraging.
Price advocates for prioritizing meniscal preservation over meniscectomy to reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis, citing studies that demonstrate a correlation between meniscectomy and long-term joint issues. He stresses the importance of clinical judgment in determining repairability and urges surgeons to be educated on the potential for treating previously deemed irreparable tears.
The discussion concludes with the recognition that further training and collaboration between surgeons will enhance patient outcomes and that meniscal repairs are likely to see increasing acceptance and usage in orthopedic practice.