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February 2, 2026Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy3 citationsOpen Access

Managing the meniscus Part 2: Traumatic tear patterns, biologic augmentation, transplantation, innovation and future research

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ARArmin RunerMKMatthew P. KolevarENEhab M. Nazzal

Key Points

  • This research focuses on the management of traumatic meniscus tears, evaluating repair techniques and new treatment options.
  • Evaluated risk factors affecting meniscus repair outcomes.
  • Reviewed biologic augmentation techniques like platelet-rich plasma and stem cells.
  • Explored meniscus allograft transplantation and alternatives.
  • Discussed emerging methods such as gene therapy.
  • Biologic augmentation strategies may improve healing but require further evaluation.
  • Meniscus allograft transplantation shows promise for pain reduction and functional improvement.
  • New techniques and materials need more research for long-term effectiveness.

Abstract

Abstract Acute, traumatic meniscus tears are common and should be repaired whenever possible. However, the biological age of the patient, along with the specific tear morphology, may significantly influence the selection of the repair technique, expected clinical outcomes and the postoperative rehabilitation protocol. Risk factors for failure of meniscus repair, such as ligament laxity, need to be addressed to improve the healing potential of the meniscus. Biologic augmentation strategies, including bone marrow stimulation, platelet‐rich plasma, fibrin clot, mesenchymal stem cells or meniscal wrapping, can be used to enhance healing and reduce failure of meniscus repair rates. However, the clinical evidence remains limited and of low quality. As such, the routine use of biologic augmentation in meniscus repair warrants critical evaluation. In patients with post‐meniscectomy syndrome, meniscus allograft transplantation (MAT) may be a viable option to reduce pain and joint degeneration and improve knee function. Meniscus implants provide alternatives to traditional MAT; however, their long‐term efficacy, chondroprotective effects and integration within the knee joint require further research. Meniscus reconstruction using tendon autografts has been described as an alternative treatment option in patients with meniscus loss. Emerging methods, such as gene therapy and repurposed drugs, demonstrate in vitro potential for advancing meniscal repair, although their clinical applications are still in their infancy. Future research is necessary to optimize meniscal repair techniques, enhance clinical efficacy, and ultimately, improve outcomes in patients. Level of Evidence Level V.

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Cite This Study

Runer et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6980feb9c1c9540dea81119ahttps://doi.org/10.1002/ksa.70314
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