All-inside meniscal repair devices and techniques. (March 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tuman, Jeff; Haro, Marc S; Foley, Sarah; Diduch, David
• Is Part Of: Expert review of medical devices. Volume 9:Number 2(2012)
• Page Start: 147
• Page End: 157
• Publication Date: 2012-03
• Subjects: all-inside -- fourth generation -- meniscal repair -- third generation; Medical instruments and apparatus -- Periodicals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1586/erd.11.74
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-4440

Abstract

Techniques and devices for meniscal repair are evolving, including for all-inside meniscal repair. The first-generation all-inside meniscal repair devices were simplistic in design, but their technical difficulties and risks led to the development of second-generation devices. These devices employed the suture anchor concept for repair and confirmed the safety of use through standard anterior arthroscopic portals. Third-generation devices introduced the idea of rigid, bioabsorbable materials; unfortunately, these demonstrated higher failure and complication rates compared with other repair techniques. They were also limited in their ability to adjust compression and tension across the repair. Now, fourth-generation devices have been developed that are flexible, suture-based, and allow for variable compression and retensioning across the tear. Each device has its own specifications and technical nuances. With a comprehensive understanding of the current devices available, the industry and surgeons may continue in the development of safer, more successful, user-friendly and cost-effective all-inside devices.