Arthroscopic meniscal repair using T-fix

Abstract

We evaluated the arthroscopic meniscal repair using T-fix and present our preliminary results. The series included 47 consecutive patients who underwent meniscal repair using T-fix. Mean follow-up was 26 months (range 12-42 months). The overall number of T-fixes used in the repairs was 163, with a mean of three (range two to five) per patient. Patients were evaluated according to the modified Marshall scoring system. Results were rated as excellent in 32, good in 10, fair in 2, and poor in 3 patients. Second-look arthroscopy was performed in 15 patients as the part of our protocol. In 15 patients meniscal tears were considered to be healed, according to Henning's criteria. Six of those who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction healed completely. There were no neurovascular complications. Repair of the menisci using T-fix proved successful and reliable. In view of satisfactory functional results and the observation of healing of tears on second-look arthroscopy, we believe that preservation and repair of menisci should be attempted in appropriate cases.