Abstract des Autors

The results of a new method for arthroscopic all-inside meniscus repair using a biodegradable cannulated screw (Clearfix meniscal screw, Innovasive Devices Inc.) were assessed in a short-term follow-up prospective study. Seventeen patients (mean age 35 years) were included in the study. Ligament stabilizing procedures were done in eleven (65%) patients who had ACL deficient knees. Only longitudinal lesions in the red-red or red-white zone were repaired. Follow-up averaged seven months with a range from 6 to 10 months. Patients were evaluated using clinical examination, the "OAK" knee evaluation scheme and magnetic resonance imaging. Criteria for clinical success included absence of joint line tenderness, swelling and a negative McMurray test. Two of 17 repaired menisci (11.8%) were considered failures according to the above mentioned criteria. Magnetic resonance imaging, however, showed persisting grade 3 or 4 lesions in eight (47%) patients. The short-term results with the Clearfix meniscal screw system seem promising and the system offers three main advantages: optimized reduction of the tear, reduced risk of serious neurovascular complications, and decreased operative time. However, further studies are needed to confirm these results in a long term follow-up. Verf.-Referat