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Abstract
A retrospective review of patients who underwent arthroscopic partial lateral meniscectomy
for lateral meniscus tears in otherwise normal knees was conducted to review the long-term
functional, clinical, and radiographic results. Twenty-six patients (27 knees) were
evaluated by questionnaire; 20 patients (21 knees) also underwent physical examination
and radiographic analysis. Minimum follow-up was 5 years and mean follow-up was 8
years. Patient data were obtained from detailed questionnaires, knee examinations,
and radiographs. Excellent or good results decreased from 92% at the time of maximal
improvement to 62% at the most recent follow-up: 85% of patients were initially able
to return to their preinjury activity level; however, only 48% were able to maintain
this level of activity at the most recent follow-up. Seventy-two percent of patients
had either one or no Fairbank changes and there was no statistical difference when
comparing radiographic criteria in the operated and nonoperated knee. Early results
for partial lateral meniscectomy can be quite good; however, significant deterioration
of functional results and decreased activity level can occur. Radiographic changes
did not correlate with subjective sumptoms and functional outcome in our patient population.
Our findings suggest that the functional outcome for patietns undergoing partial lateral
meniscectomy may deteriorate with time and it may be helpful to counsel patients concerning
long-term expectations.
Keywords
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© 1995 Published by Elsevier Inc.
