Summary

To introduce the method of Arthroscopic lateral meniscal root radial tear repair by using FAST-FIX 360 system in athletes.

Abstract

Object and Method: Totally 36 athletes diagnosed with lateral meniscal root radial tears from June 2010 to June 2015 which received meniscal root radial tear repairs with the FAST-FIX 360 system were prospectively evaluated. Preoperative and follow-up evaluation was performed using both objective and subjective criteria such as swelling, negative McMurray test, over extension test, over flexion test, joint-line tenderness, and absence of locking. International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) criteria as well as Lysholm functional questionnaires were performed. Ability to back to training and competition was also investigated.

Results

21 cases are all professional players, had an average age of 24 years (range, 16 to 27), and an average follow-up of 24 months (range, 16 to 28 months). There were 4 female and 17 male athletes with 21 lateral meniscal root radial repairs. All of these cases accompany an ACL injury and receive an ACL reconstruction at the same time. 10 tears extended to the posterior horn. 1 to 3 FAST-FIX 360 devices was used with an interrupted vertical or cross mattress suture. The healing rate was 85.7% (18/21). All cases came back to training and competition without postoperative complications except 3 cases of operation failure. Both the Lysholm and the IKDC scores improved statistically (Lysholm average, 73±4.2 preoperative and 95±5.3 postoperative; IKDC average, 68±4.9 preoperative and 92±2.5 postoperative) (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The FAST-FIX 360 system offers a relatively high rate of meniscal healing and backing to training and competition for the excellent athletes who suffered from lateral meniscal root radial tears.