The Effect of Arthroscopic Partial Medial Meniscectomy on Tibiofemoral Stability

Background: There is still little known regarding the effects of meniscus resection size on tibiofemoral stability. Purpose: To determine if partial medial meniscectomy of the posterior horn significantly alters tibiofemoral stability as measured by the anterior-posterior (AP) position and laxity of the medial femoral condyle. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Five cadaveric knees were dissected to the capsule, preserving all ligaments and the quadriceps tendon. Each specimen was first tested on a rig where the AP position and laxity of the medial femoral condyle were measured while a range of forces was applied from full extension to 90 degrees of flexion. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3 tesla was then performed for baseline measurements of the meniscus before partial meniscectomy. Arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy aimed at 30% of the posterior horn was then performed, followed by repeat mechanical testing and MRI. The sequence was then repeated for arthroscopic partial meniscectomy aimed at 60% and 100% of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus. Results: The MRI analysis demonstrated that 22% +/- 9% of the original width of the posterior horn was removed at the first resection, 46% +/- 11% was removed at the second resection, and the third resection was 100% removal of the posterior horn for all specimens. After 22% resection, no significant difference in AP laxity was observed. A statistically significant increase in AP laxity was observed with 46% resection under a 500-N compressive load compared with the intact meniscus. After full resection, significant increases in AP laxity were observed under a 50-N compressive load compared with the intact and 22% and 46% resections. The 22% resection had similar AP positions as the intact knee, whereas the 46% resection and 100% removal of the posterior horn had statistically further posterior AP positions than the intact knee. Conclusion: Partial medial meniscectomy with >= 46% resection of the original width of the posterior horn significantly altered the AP position of the medial femoral condyle and also increased laxity. Clinical Relevance: These mechanical changes may lead to abnormal cartilage loading and early osteoarthritis.