Meniscus replacement

Meniscus replacement remains a difficult prospect. Attempts to use artificial materials have led to synovitis and articular cartilage wear. Autografts generally have failed to protect the tibial surface and have led to scar tissue formation. Allografts of meniscus cartilage from cadavers generally have shrunk in animal and human tests to date, have failed in arthritic knees, and may be complicated by immunologic reaction. Pain relief has been reported in pristine knees, however. Collagen scaffolds for meniscus regeneration are showing promise in current human clinical trials.